Feeling good, happy and just generally content is one of the most important things in life. There are times when it can be difficult to be positive and happy, but that's where our 10 feel good activities come into it. Here's how to feel good, fast.
1. Disney film marathons.
Yes, there's nothing better than a flashback to childhood, alongside it's carefree, happy-go-lucky attitude. I decided to put on Pocahontas yesterday and was amazed at the level of humor it had for adults. I'm still chuckling from the comment made by a tree 'my bark is worse than my bite'. I even got to sing along. Winning!
2. Snuggling under a blanket.
Warm and comforting, nothing says "screw you world" like hiding under your favourite blanket for a few hours. Make it fun, and include the above Disney film for the laughs. I tend to light a fire as well. It adds to that cozy, comforting effect. Heaven.
3. Make a warm drink.
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Warm drinks, whether it's tea, coffee, hot chocolate or even a simple cup of milk, are known for their delightfully comforting qualities. Making the drink, ensuring you have all the right ingredients, putting them together with all the sadness left in your body, then the gentle first sip followed by that delicious burning down your throat. Mmmmmmm. In fact, it's been said that tea mimics the warmth and comfort brought on by fellow humans, which is why we enjoy hot beverages so much when we're down.
4. Go for a long walk.
Okay, I live in Ireland, so this isn't always ideal, but when the weather is good, I find a long walk to the beach brightens my mood significantly. When there's bright sunshine, clear blue skies and the calming sounds of nature, you can't help but smile a little. If you don't have a beach, try a woods or even a field. Don't forget to bring your dog too!
5. Cuddling furry animals.
There's something calming about the soft feel of their heartbeat under your palm as you pet them. My dog always mistakes my attention for 'wants to play' and he grabs his toy and runs in circles at my feet. I love it, it's guaranteed to help me feel brighter. My guinea-pigs have a much more calming effect, as they make small squeaking sounds and it feels like they're talking to me.
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6. Don't have pets? Try talking to a friend.
Send them a simple text message, or if you feel up to it, call them. There's nothing like the sound of my BFF's laughter to make me chuckle, and he always has a funny comment or video for me as well. My reluctance to talk eventually turns into a reluctance to say goodbye. Mission accomplished!
7. Try some retail therapy.
Shopping has been named that for a reason. Buying yourself nice things can be a form of self-care. It's a present for you, from you! I've never been a fan of shopping, but I treated myself to a (well needed) haircut last week, and it had a similar effect. I walked out the place feeling fabulous. The only downside here is making sure you stay within your budget. We don't want you to end up broke or in debt because that is certainly NOT a feel good factor.
8. Clean your room.
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It might not sound fun, but sometimes something as simple as getting out of bed, opening your curtains and windows and giving everything a freshen up can make the world of difference. It can make your living space more bearable, and can distract you from what has you feeling down. It's like two problems solved at once. Bam!
9. Listen to loud, upbeat music.
I particularly enjoy this when it's raining. I find it's hard to beat some good tunes when you're feeling a bit down. Pick your old favorites, maybe even listen to somebody else's and get to know them better in the process. Perhaps you could make a list? Be like Eminem and lose yourself in the music for a while. Life can be a bit easier to grasp afterwards.
10. Do something for somebody else.
It's preached throughout the choir: There's more happiness in giving than getting, and it's true. Helping somebody in need can distract us from our own problems, get us out of our own heads and make us feel useful. See? Everyone's happy!
