Everyone Loves a Good Mood-Booster

Good morning, everyone! Happy Valentine's Day!

I know some people dread this day, but I really just love it. Not just because it's all lovey dovey and cutesy (I'll try not to be that girl), but because the day gives you something to smile about.
Whether it's the little paper valentines that we'd give everyone in elementary school, a bouquet of flowers, or a big old Reese's heart because you just need it okay?
Smiles, people.

That being said, I feel like everyone's moods have been all over the place lately-including me! I'm a big fan of finding new ways to cope with moods and obstacles, so I figured I'd give you a few coping strategies that I've been trying to incorporate lately. (key word: trying ;) )

Abby's Fantastic List of Mood Boosters

1) Music, baby. I'm a big fan of Pandora radio, especially some of the piano stations. They just calm me and make me melt. (Don't roll your eyes- I'm allowed to say that today!) But seriously, music can seriously turn my mood around.

Some tracks I recommend:
Daylight by Olu -some language, and a little rap heavy but so uplifting
What Makes You Beautiful by Boyce Avenue - a nice, calming, acoustic take on 1D's crazy top-40 hit
Just the Way You Are/Just a Dream by Pitch Perfect - youtube this. I just love it.
Fly by Nikki Minaj - good for when your thoughts feel heavy
Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys - enough said.


2) Make a coping/inspiration wall- or just think about what you would put on it. I actually did this Tuesday, and I must say that it was so comforting to know that I have my own little chunk of go-to reminders when life gets hard.

It helps that I'm such a quote lover. :)


3) Do something only for you. Write your thoughts, watch your favorite movie, go for a run at your own pace, paint your toes, take a bath, make a sugar scrub, make a collage just because you can, read, pick up a cheap clearance item at Target, go out for froyo, online shop, bake something awesome, buy your favorite coffee drink. Just do it. You're not selfish, and you wont regret it. :)

4) Distract yourself. Whether it's calling someone just cause, or zoning out in front of the TV for awhile. Do something to get your mind off of your stressors. Trust me, the more you think about the worries, the bigger they get.
I also recommend I Funny, 10 minute Friends clips on Youtube, and Just Little Things.
:)


5) Sweat it out. Have you ever felt bad after a wonderful, heart-pumping, adrenaline-boosting workout? Didn't think so. Go make yourself feel awesome.

Cute new workout clothes don't hurt either!


6) Relax, relax, relax.
If the problem is that you're lost in your own thoughts, try this technique: note 5 things you see, 5 things you hear, 5 things you feel. Then find 4 different things you see, hear, and feel. Then three different things, two, and finally one. It engages all of your senses and is a proven worry-killer.

I also like meditations, yoga, stretching, deep breathing, and a nice dose of stress lotion.

7) Remember that it will pass. Sometimes the moods just feel so. freaking. huge. But the moment will pass. In an hour you could be crying from laughter. You never know what life will bring, so just try to be patient and breathe it out. ;)
Easier said than done, I know.


Alright, well I hope everyone has a wonderful day! I'll spend mine baking up a storm and playing Just Dance with Chris, and if you've been reading for awhile, you know that's something I never do. ;) If it ain't broke don't fix it? Something like that.

Have a good one! Oh, and if you get the chance to eat a Reese's heart, please do. Peanut butter and chocolate is the best coping strategy, anyway. ;)
Sit back, and enjoy the day! Here's to a less-stressy week for all of us!

Think about it: "Promise me you will not spend so much time treading water and trying to keep your head above the waves that you forget, truly forget, how much you have always loved to swim." -Tyler Knott Gregson