12 Ways to Lift Your spirits this season
It’s been toooo long since I’ve written anything. I’ve been going through the waves of life—with living at home in Ohio (for the first time in almost a decade), a HUGE adjustment for me—as well as being away from friends in California. It’s led me to have many moments of deep reflection.
Something truly amazing happened recently though, and that is I finally got baptized. It happed on Easter Sunday, 2 days before my 29th birthday, and it was absolutely perfect. I felt the Holy Spirit transform my body and soul, and it was the most surreal experience I’ve had so far in my life…and also one of the best days of my life. And while doing that was a huge step in itself, it’s still taken devotion (and some effort) to maintain and build my relationship with Christ (and overall well-being). Apart from daily devotionals and time with Him, I’ve incorporated a few things into my life that have lifted my spirits in ways I haven’t experienced in as long time. I believe there are many things that go into a person’s overall well-being, and it takes commitment to yourself and sometimes discipline to make it happen. I can confidently say that after incorporating the below practices into my life, the joy inside me has seriously deepened, even though certain circumstances in my life right now are most definitely not at all perfect.
So here are 12 things you can try out for yourself to lift your spirits this season. I kept each one fairly simple, but always feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Limit social media — especially before bed and first thing in the morning. I recently deleted my instagram and have a noticed a huge difference—this is not necessary though. If you still struggle, think of the goal—which is how amazing you will feel the next day if you can do this for yourself! Try putting your phone in a different room if you can.
Find a morning routine and stick to it. So you always know that no matter how your day turns out, you always have your routine in the morning to lean onto. Make it something relatively simple (and realistic) so it will easily become a habit.
Learn how to forgive yourself and others. A spiritual practice helps here.
Listen to uplifting music and visualize the life you want! Dance if you feel up to it. Dancing alwayssss makes me feel amazing.
St John’s wort - my favorite brands are Mountain Rose Herbs and Nature’s Way. This one is huge for me! I notice a major difference if I run out and don’t take it for a couple days. Consistency is KEY! Keep in mind it takes about 30-60 days to get the full effect. Make sure to not combine with any prescription anti-depressants.
Getting ample time in the sun — but even a little bit will do as well! Vitamin D does wonders for your mood. Just make sure to use sun protection if you plan on spending more than 30 minutes.
Reconnecting with your soul — with your purpose, your values, goals, and loved ones.
Limit alcohol to less days per week - alcohol is a depressant and if consumed daily, there is an impact on your overall mood. I drink a couple glasses maybe once or twice a week.
Connect with plants and nature. Spend time outside, gaze at something beautiful. Consume herbs with uplifting properties—such as Damiana, Mucuna, and Red Clover. Eat raw cacao and more fruit. I also offer custom made tea bags with organic uplifting herbs if you are interested :)
Get that oxytocin. Cuddle your pet a little bit longer, give more hugs.
Isolate less. Find ways to be around people who are good for your health more often. Call a friend, go to church, smile to others at work or on the street. Compliment others more, be a better listener.
Exercise is a big one. But I’m listing this one last because, 1, it’s an obvious one. And 2, I know that sometimes it can be hard to find the motivation when your mood is so low.
Let me know that you think, and what worked best for you! Also would love to know what you do in your life to maintain your happiness and well-being.
Yours in health,
Elise