This blog is one that is personal to me where we talk about five essential tips for finding happiness when you're feeling down.
In life, it's not uncommon to experience periods where happiness feels just out of reach. Recently, I had a lot of those episodes going in and out of my life as you all know what had happened. Whether it's due to external circumstances, internal struggles, or simply the ups and downs of life, these phases can be challenging.
However, it's important to remember that happiness is not just a fleeting moment, but a state of being that can be cultivated with mindful practices and positive changes that only you can take charge of. In this blog post, we will explore five practical tips to help uplift your spirits and guide you towards a happier state of mind even for that moment when you're facing your fear.
1. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness is the art of being fully present and engaged in the moment, aware of our thoughts and feelings without judgment. This practice can help reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being. Meditation, a key aspect of mindfulness, can be as simple as spending a few minutes each day focusing on your breath or engaging in guided exercises. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice.
2. Engage in Physical Activity
There's a well-established connection between physical activity and mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, often referred to as 'feel-good' hormones, which can boost your mood and energy levels. In fact, I just got back from the gym as I'm trying to rebuild my body to the glory it used to be and more. I started going to the gym beginning of the year simply because of these episodes I had back then and it really changed my life and the way I look at my day. I was so caught up with bettering myself from my body which quickly transitioned to my day to day operations. It works!
You don't need to commit to intense workouts; even a daily walk, yoga, or light stretching can make a significant difference. I did do very intense workouts simply to dish out my frustrations. I went on to embrace powerlifting and injure my back attempting a 250kg (550lbs) deadlift attempt and wow that was rough on me. Anyway, find an activity you enjoy, and make it a regular part of your routine.
3. Foster Strong Social Connections
Humans are social beings, and our relationships play a crucial role in our overall happiness. Strong social connections can provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and increase feelings of belonging and purpose. Reach out to friends and family, engage in community activities, or join groups that share your interests. Remember, it's about the quality of connections, not the quantity.
I was at a point where what mattered to me was the quantity of friends I had. In fact, I knew someone everywhere I went. Then, things took a turn and I soon found out that those people I thought I was great with made me feel like Woody when Andy threw him into the box. I found out so much though I had no modern communication mediums at that crushed me in a place where there was no friendly party. Then when I came back to the open world, I dound true friends who still stuck around and there were still a few of them but they were around and always made sure I was doing alright. This is where I am now and in some ways, that experience blessed me with a filter for my friends.
4. Pursue a Hobby or Interest
Engaging in hobbies or interests can be incredibly fulfilling. They provide an outlet for creativity, relaxation, and can even lead to new social connections. Whether it's picking up an old hobby you've neglected or exploring something completely new, dedicating time to activities that bring you joy can have a profound impact on your mood and outlook on life.
Recently, I have took on two of my hobbies that I've neglected for some time when my work picked up greatly. One was readying and the other was content creation. I have always liked the two for some reason only my psychologist can explain but I thoroughly enjoy doing those things. I love to read and I love talking about things. These hobbies are intangible things no one can take away from me and it's what's in my treasure throve.
5. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If feelings of unhappiness persist and significantly impact your daily life, it's important to seek professional help. There's absolutely no shame in reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapists can provide valuable support, offer coping strategies, and guide you through difficult times. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
I would recommend seeking help from:
Befrienders Malaysia: 03-7627 2929
Mental Health America: 1 800 985 5990
Suicide Prevention Line (USA): 988
Conclusion
While everyone's journey to happiness is unique, these tips can provide a starting point for anyone looking to enhance their sense of well-being. I myself used these tips and I managed to find some solace during these tough times. I understand that not everyone sees how tough these times are on me aside those who are actually close to me but one's personal mental health is important to that individual and you are allowed to be selfish about it. Remember, it's often the small, consistent changes that lead to the most significant impact. Embrace the journey, and be kind to yourself as you explore these paths towards a happier, more fulfilling life.