Five Easy Ways to Lift Your Spirits

Tarot of Quotes

Feeling like the Four of Cups today?

Bored

Dissatisfied

Can't be bothered

Sluggish

Uninspired

No motivation

And to top it all off, whilst finishing off your coffee, you realise it's gone cold.

Sometimes there is a good reason for being in such a mood. Perhaps your relationship is no longer what it used to be, or your current job is stifling your ambitions and potential. Maybe it's just the rainy weather or hormones. If this is the case, then embrace your discontent as a catalyst for change.

But if you are just experiencing one of those off-days, then there is always something you can do, to lift yourself out of your black hole.

1. Start off  with a Smile

It doesn't take much energy. You don't even need to get out of bed for that. Think about happy moments you have experienced recently or in the past; funny moments, people, movies, stories... and it's even better if you can smile just out of gratitude for being alive.

If you are out and about, smile at someone passing you in the street (avoid those dodgy-looking people; a little old lady is usually safe). Chances are high they'll smile back, which is nice!

Smiling triggers endorphins in your body, which make you feel good. You don't even need to smile at people; smiling within will do. You can do this by relaxing your eyes and put on a kind attitude towards yourself and others.

Smiling within your body is a strategy found in many meditation traditions to initiate a change in your body's chemistry to raise your endorphin levels.

2. Do something you enjoy

When you feel like you are stuck in a boring and frustrating rut, take some time out and do something you enjoy. Even if it's only for ten minutes, this welcome interruption of your routine can offer new focus and inspiration.

You could listen to a track of your favourite music, and perhaps even get up and dance (provided you're in the right place for that ;)).

Have a nice cup of coffee or tea with a little treat.

Phone a friend who is cheerful and makes you laugh.

Get some fresh air to clear your head and refresh your senses.

3. Exercise

A minimum of 20 minutes exercise, such as brisk walking, will raise your serotonin (the "happy" hormone) levels in your body. You may have to really push yourself at first to make a start, but once you've done it, you will feel great. Believe me, I know!

4. Get out into Nature

There is nothing so exhilarating than a breath of fresh air in your local park or countryside. Watch the birds, look at the sky, appreciate the greenery and beauty of nature around you. In no time you are feeling less agitated, and negative thoughts start to gradually fade away.

5. Rest
Waiting can be one of the most frustrating irritations in the world. Being stuck in an airport lounge for hours or on a commuter train...sometimes the best you can do is just close your eyes and switch off from all the hustle and bustle around you.

You may also have to consider taking some rest time, if you have been working intensely for weeks on end to meet a deadline without a proper break. Nagging resentment resulting from prolonged stressful work is a sign that taking time out is essential to reboot yourself and make you feel more positive.

What's your favourite way to beat the Four-of-Cups blues?

Warmest wishes,

Christiane 

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