10 Ways You Can Feel Good Today

Some days can feel a little more difficult than others, and it's easy to allow those times to influence your overall mental wellbeing and happiness.

There will be days when you wake up, and although nothing has happened - you just feel a bit 'off'.

It can be hard to put into words why you feel this way, or know what you can do to help lift your mood, or feel more comfortable.

Sometimes we just get a bit flat, and that's okay. Even the most energetic or positive person in the room will have a day when their energy is a little off, or they're more introspective than usual.

When I or others around me have felt like this, the first thing I tend to do is take a moment and try to understand a little more about what my mind / body is telling me.

Often it's nothing obvious, other times it's down to lack of sleep or a worry that's nestled deep in my subconscious.

There are things you can do to either support yourself during these times, allowing yourself to feel those emotions, like getting cosy on the sofa, watching a good film, taking a long bath, journaling or chatting to a friend.

It can be very therapeutic to sit with feelings, allow yourself to embrace what you're experiencing in the moment. But sometimes it isn't practical and you need that boost.

For the times you want to move past these feelings to try and lift your mood, here are 10 things you could try.

10 Low Energy Ideas:

1. Get Moving - It might be the last thing you feel like doing, but gentle movement can work wonders. This doesn't mean running a marathon - a 10-minute walk, some light stretching, or even dancing to your favourite song in your kitchen can help release those much-needed endorphins.
2. Connect with Nature - Step outside and take a moment to notice the world around you. Take a mindful approach to this, feel the breeze on your skin, listen to the birds, or watch the clouds pass by. Nature has an amazing way of helping you feel grounded and putting your thoughts into perspective.
3. Create Something - Creativity doesn't have to mean painting a masterpiece. Try doodling or drawing in a notebook, taking photos to use in a collage or vision board, arranging flowers in a vase, or writing down your thoughts. When you are focused on creating something, however small, it helps to shift your focus. It can also give you a sense of accomplishment.
4. Practice Mindful Breathing - Take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Place one hand on your belly, breathe in slowly through your nose for four counts, hold for four, then release for six. This simple technique can help calm your nervous system and bring you back to the present moment. It's something you can repeat throughout the day and the calming of your breath sends a signal to your brain that you are safe. It's great when you're feeling worried or anxious.
5. Nourish Your Body - When your mood is low, it's easy to reach for comfort food or skip meals entirely. Try to eat something nutritious - even if it's just a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts. Highly processed and sugary foods can cause a slump in energy, adding to the fatigue you're already experiencing. Staying hydrated is equally important, so keep sipping water throughout the day.
6. Change Your Environment - Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need to shift your perspective and lift your mood. you can get outside, sit in the garden, take that walk, or if this feels too much, focus on the environment around you. Tidy one small area of your home, open the windows to let in fresh air, or rearrange the items on your desk. These small changes can help create a sense of renewal and satisfaction. Decluttering is hugely helpful for your mindset and focus.
7. Connect with Someone - Send a message to a friend or call a family member. You don't need to talk about how you're feeling - sometimes just having a normal conversation about everyday things can lift your spirits. If talking through how you're feeling is helpful, speak to the person you feel most comfortable with. Getting those thoughts out can feel like a big release, allowing you to process and empty your mind of that constant chatter.
8. Do One Small Task - Choose something manageable from your to-do list and complete it. It could be making your bed, responding to an email, or focusing on a work task you've been putting off. Completing even one small task can help create momentum and give you a sense of control. Make the goal as little as possible. Break it right down so that you get those instant wins as you build your momentum.
9. Practice Self-Compassion - Remind yourself that it's okay to have days like this. Speak to yourself as you would to a good friend - with kindness and understanding. This isn't about forcing positivity, but rather accepting where you are right now. Giving yourself grace is the kindest thing you can do. Everybody needs down time, and trust that your value or worth is not based upon what you did, or didn't do today.
10. Plan Something to Look Forward to - It doesn't have to be anything big - maybe it's watching the next episode of your favourite show, trying a new recipe, or planning a weekend catch-up with friends. Having something to look forward to, however small, can help shift your perspective from the present moment.

Remember...

These suggestions aren't about forcing yourself to feel better and just get on with things... They're gentle tools that you can try if you feel able to. Everyone is different, so play around with what works for you.

Quieter days can be your body's way of recharging, so try to give yourself permission to do so without guilt.

Remember that these feelings are temporary, and it's completely normal to have days when you feel this way.

The aim of these simple strategies is so that you can support yourself through these moments until your natural energy and mood begin to lift again.

What's your favourite way to manage these feelings & lower energy days?