19 Simple Ways to Uplift Yourself Today

Guest Post by Jennifer McGregor

You deserve to move through life feeling like your best self. In reality, some days you feel beat down, worn out, and like you’re barely getting by. When that happens, do you know how to rest and rejuvenate?

Here are four reasons you’re in a funk and how to break out of it to be the person you’re meant to be.

When anxiety keeps you up at night

Anxiety and insomnia create a vicious cycle where the less you sleep, the more anxious you feel, and the more anxious you feel, the less you sleep. Breaking this cycle feels impossible when you’re stuck in it, but a good night’s sleep may be closer than you think.

To break the cycle of insomnia:

• Make your bedroom as cool, dark, and quiet as possible.
• Stop using caffeine as a crutch.
• Get sunshine as soon as you wake up.
• Exercise in the late afternoon or evening.
• Banish electronics from the bedroom.

Can’t bear the thought of not scrolling social media or playing games before bed? You might change your tune when you learn that blue light could be the cause of your sleeplessness. Blue light before bed is associated with reduced production of melatonin, the hormone that controls your circadian rhythm.

When you can’t stop arguing

Is the tension in your home palpable? If it seems like you’ve been at each other’s throats for weeks, it’s time to reset and break out of the toxic patterns your household has fallen into.

Here’s how to clear the air at home:

• Get rid of clutter.
• Open the blinds and windows.
• Get rid of broken items.
• Clean doors and windows.
• Smudge your home.

What’s smudging? Smudging is a purifying process that uses healing sage to cleanse negative energy. Take time to state your intention before smudging and repeat a mantra during the smudging process to reinforce your intention. And, as always, be sure to practice fire safety while smudging your space.

When aches and pains make you irritable

Living with chronic pain isn’t pleasant. Unfortunately, sometimes that comes out in irritability, apathy, and even depression. But taking out your pain on others doesn’t do yourself or anyone else good. Instead, turn to uplifting coping strategies like these:

• Practice breathing techniques.
• Engage in gentle yoga and stretching.
• Give yourself acupressure.
• Get a massage from your partner.

Massage is an especially good choice if chronic pain is straining your relationship as it not only relieves pain but provides an opportunity to come together. Instead of regular massage oil, use CBD massage oil for added anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving benefits. CBD massage oils vary in concentration and some include ingredients like other oils and scents, so consider the experience you want when buying CBD oils.

When you’re feeling not good enough

Nothing feels worse than when your self-esteem is down in the dumps. From an embarrassing moment to a strained relationship, there are lots of things that can make you feel like you’re not your best self. Instead of letting life get you down, focus on building yourself up with these tips:

• List 10 positive things about yourself.
• Do something creative.
• Volunteer, donate or help someone.
• Dress to impress.
• Read something inspirational.

Need recommendations for an inspirational read? When you need a reminder that you’re worth it, turn to these books about self-love. With advice designed to stimulate reflection and growth and exercises to help you along the journey, these books are full of practical resources for getting your life on the right path.

Life ebbs and flows, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept when you’re in a rut. Whether you’re struggling with one of these challenges or just need tips to help you feel your best, make sure you’re building simple acts of self-care into each and every day.