Beating the Blues

Feeling “blue” or down in the dumps?” It’s ok to feel that way...just try not to stay there too long!
Despite their name, the blues usually don't just appear “out of the blue.” They are often the result of something more specific and are ways we describe feelings of sadness, sorrow or melancholy. Brief periods of feeling “blue” are usually caused by events in life that leave us feeling discouraged or disheartened. These are feelings which many of us can relate to at some point in our lives. And the positive note is...these are usually feelings that you can shake off rather quickly.

Feeling Blue is totally normal and not necessarily a bad thing. It can alert you to the fact that something might not be quite right in your life. You can use this in a positive way to help you take steps to identify the cause and make some changes that will help you feel better. When you feel sad, you can often lighten your mood with laughter, spend time with loved ones, put on some music, play a silly game, or participate in your favorite hobby. Have patience with yourself. Be kind to yourself and most of all, love yourself no matter what you are feeling! 

Here are some simple things you can do to improve your mood...You might be surprised at how much better you can feel with these few simple changes. 

Community & Communication:  

Simply talking with someone you trust can often help ease distress. Find a supportive network of people. Reach out to family, friends and acquaintances and take steps to build your connections with them.  

If you don’t have much of a support network now, build a new one. Make new friends by taking a class, join a social group or invite your neighbors over for dinner. You can even join an online support group for whatever feeling you might be facing. The key is try not to isolate yourself; spend more time with others, even in small doses. 

Just Move: 

Take up mood-boosting yoga, chair exercises or just walking. These practices incorporate moves that can help you to relax and stretch; you will improve your balance and coordination while also lowering stress levels. Also spend time in nature; a short hike or an hour of gardening can be a powerful mood lifter. Exercise triggers endorphin release which acts as a natural form of pain relief, which can help you feel better mentally and physically. 

Get more Sleep: 

You might not make rest time a priority, but sleep plays a key role in regulating emotions. Not getting enough sleep can lead to slow metabolism, anxiety, and stress. Curl up with an enjoyable book, some soft music or herbal tea before lying down to help you fall asleep faster during stressful times. Meditate to relax and refocus your thoughts. A meditation app. Is a great option. 

Get some fresh air: 

Exposure to sunlight and Vit. D is known to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting one’s mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. Spending time outside in nature can help lift a low mood and relieve stress and sadness. Trees, flowers, rivers, fresh air... anything outside can be amazingly uplifting. 

Express your Creativity:

Expressing your emotions in creative ways can have amazing benefits. Try, journaling, writing poetry, designing art that reflects your mood or listening to some music...Here is a little trick...try turning the volume down so low the music is almost imperceptible. This trick allows you to focus on listening and helps silence racing thoughts.  

Laugh: 

Laughter lowers stress hormones and improves blood flow, which increases your energy levels. Put on a movie that makes you giggle! 

Treat Yourself: 

If a massage isn’t in your budget, the next best thing is a hot bubble bath with some soothing music. You get the added benefit of increased blood flow to muscles, which helps them relax. 

Overall, the key is to find your own way to feel happy. Be honest, build faith, and expand your joy...think about what makes you happy and lifts you up, and then spend more time doing it. Be free to feel your feelings!
Remember, be kind to yourself, be patient and love yourself no matter how you are feeling.

https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/mental/tips-for-blues 

https://www.healthline.com/health/feeling-blue#blues-vs-depression