5 Ways To Lift Your Spirits!

No matter how challenging the day's events are, wouldn't it be amazing
if we could simply shrug them off, crawl into bed and drift off into a
blissful slumber awakening the next morning with a can-do-attitude,
great looking hair and minty, fresh breath to boot! O.K., maybe that last
part is a bit unrealistic but, you know what I mean.


While we may have the greatest of intentions to handle what comes our
way in a positive, upbeat manner, the truth is, many of us have had our
fair share of bad days; really crappy, drag-you-down-in-the-dump-bad
days. And when this happens, most of us would rather stay under the
covers than face another moment where we feel emotionally and physically
exhausted, mentally numb and spiritually bankrupt. But, there is hope,
my friends! There are many things you can do to lift your spirits and maybe
make someone else feel good along the way, too. Here are some of my
favorites-maybe they can help you the next time you're having "one of those
days."


1. Smile. Really, it's that easy! When you are out and about, make eye
    contact with others and smile, and mean it! Expressing something as
    nice and comforting as a smile can make you and the other person feel
    great. An alternative-if you can't get out and about-is to stand or sit in
    front of the mirror and smile at that beautiful face of yours! I know it
    sounds corny and you might even feel a little silly doing it, but, try it, it
    really works and you just may get a chuckle out of it, too:)


2. Get moving! If you are able to get outside, strap on your shoes and
    start walking. Taking a stroll in nature can have a positive affect on
    your emotions. So, take time, literally, to stop and smell the roses,
    admire the blue sky above, or listen to the sound of a bird singing
    nearby. If you have a difficult time leaving your home because of
    physical limitations, ask a family member, friend or neighbor to assist
    you. It will not only make you feel good to be outdoors, but, you'll be
    sharing some quality time with those you care about.


3. Volunteer. Do you have a little extra time on your hands? Some places
    such as your local library are always looking for volunteers for their
    literacy programs, for example. Other establishments such as your
    local food bank can use an extra set of hands unloading and loading
    items to stock their shelves to feed the needy. There are also local 
    programs for the elderly where you simply donate an hour a week calling
    a senior citizen and checking in on them. Lending your time to a good 
    cause is a wonderful way to feel great!


4. Write a letter. Is there someone in your life who means the world to you?
    Your husband, wife, a parent, maybe even a teacher who touched you in a
    profound way? If so, what about writing a letter expressing your gratitude
    in how they've made a difference in your life. You'll not only be smiling
    writing the letter, you're sure to put a smile on their face when they open it:)


5. Belt one out! So what if you can't carry a note in a bag:) I'll be the first to
    admit I can drive squirrels back into their burrows with my pipes, but, who
    cares, I love singing songs and the cornier the better actually, especially if
    I'm entertaining my kids. But, if you don't want to sing, try humming or
    whistling. Whatever you do, I guarantee you, you'll be feeling happy in no
    time and most probably won't even remember why you were mad in the
    first place!


So, there you have it folks, 5 ways to be happy, inspired and fulfilled! Now get
out there and make a difference......you'll be glad you did:)


Have a magical, mystical-filled day!


Tracy Lee Nash, E.H.P.