We know what it’s like when you are having such a tough day and all you want to do is curl up into a little ball. I know those days seem to increase as the days go by but these are some of our ideas. This is how we combat our feelings by looking and doing things that cheer us up.
- Listening to inspirational songs can distract ones mind and use time wisely. The lyrics of a song are extremely important so it is wise to simply devote a few minutes. So that you can wholeheartedly listen to that song that motivates or inspires you.
I know it may seem tempting to listen to some sad songs but it is not a wise idea to further worsen your mood.
I personally like listening to piano pieces. I find they are extremely soothing and relaxing to listen to. Also a bit of promotion be sure to check out our channel on youtube.
- Another idea is to make a happy box ! It is very simple to make you simply get a box and fill it with things that make you happy. For example in my happy box I have photographs of me, friends and family. I also have put a notebook and pen in there. It’s just a nice little motivation when things are looking tough so I have some nail polish in their also. I guess it could be seen as a distraction so you open the box and paint your nails and look at the photographs, cards, quotes whatever you choose to put in the box. I will make a dedicated post about my happy box so look out for this !
It doesn’t matter what you put in it, it is your happy box so I would put things which have a sentimental value in the box. I sometimes find venting in a notebook can be extremely helpful or by drawing. It doesn’t matter if your not particularly good at drawing the idea is to distract yourself from any harmful behaviour.
- Another good way to vent is to blog online it can sometimes help release the tension and lighten ‘the load’ as some would say. It doesn’t have to be public you could simply make a private blog on tumblr, wordpress, blogger etc. It is a great stress reliever.
- Hobbies- such as photography, art, dance, sports, singing, writing, cycling, walking etc can be a great way to distract your mind and to keep you busy during your depressive period. The aim is to to distract you from hurting yourself and to keep you safe mentally and physically.
Exercise is a great way to release endorphins which dramatically improve your mode. It is also good to keep in shape and if exercise can be used as an alternative to harming yourself then that is a positive step. In regards to exercise it should only be done in moderation because over exercising for people with eating disorders is not beneficial for the individual. If you want to exercise it is best if you eat a decent sized meal and you should set an acceptable amount of time to exercise. This does not mean you should run for hours and hours it should be a gentle half hour a day. The recommended exercise time is 20 minutes a day.
- Treat yourself- why not have a nice hot bath whilst reading a favourite book and use some nice smelling body products. It is always nice to feel good about yourself. You could also pamper yourself for example - face mask, hair mask (anything that makes you feel better about yourself). Or maybe you want something yummy to eat have the occassional treat food (in moderation) because over eating can make you feel worse about yourself and could lead you to purging.
- Write a life ambition list that will motivate you to carry on even when things seem impossible. For example -
- Get married
- Have a family
- Travel to ….
- Live in…..
- Buy…..
- Donate….
I think you get the drift something you wish to achieve and that will keep you motivated in regaining your life !
