5 mood altering hacks
Did you know…we usually look to changing our minds to manage our anxiety or sad mood and yet our BODY can also “speak” to our emotions in a positive way! There’s some really simple hacks you can learn when anxiety and stress are starting to rise in you. Are you ready?
Cold cold water on your face. This short circuits the threat response. That gulp of air when the cold “ takes your breath away” can reset your anxious response to calm. Even a cold cold drink of water can do similar. This is also why a dip in the Murrumbidgee into that icy water on a hot summer day can create such a calming sensation.
Move your bo—-ody. Feeling that familiar feeling rise while in a room of people? Get up the courage to move around the room. Do a sashay circuit. Or if you’re home alone, jumping on the spot several times can settle that feeling.
The 20 second hug. Research has shown that a hug that lasts 20 seconds helps release endorphons- one of our happy hormones - into the blood stream, counteracting that dread you feel when overwhelm hits. You might have had the baby all over you all day, but its not the same as a long hug from your partner. (oh, and no ulterior agenda!)
Stretch. Or dance. Or both. Even seasoned Gym goers forget to stretch. Stretching allows the pent up tension to be challenged and released. Likewise dancing like no-one’s watching and shaking everything out can help release anxiety.
Get outside. Sometimes the Wagga Wagga weather is not so friendly, when it is ok, though, choose to go for a walk outside. Nature has a way of absorbing the anxiety we hold in our body. There’s nothing better (I reckon) than a walk in the rain with a big colourful umbrella to shift the blues.
Of course, all these ideas are great, however sometimes though you need a little help. Always consult a specialist Counsellor if those moods are drawing you away from your routines and connections. It’s OK to seek help!