What to Do When You’re Sad to Feel Better Instantly: Practical Ways to Shift Your Mood
All of the feels! This episode was inspired by Lily’s affinity for those memes that keep it simple and offer practical tips to shift energy when you’re feeling off. These help us remember that we have power, even when negative feelings make us feel like we don’t. Some days you just feel off, even when nothing seems wrong. You might wake up feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or simply lacking energy. In a world that expects constant happiness, it is easy to judge yourself for having negative emotions. The truth is, feeling down is a normal part of being human. What matters is how you respond when those feelings show up. This week, Lily and I share practical, compassionate strategies you can use to feel better instantly. These are not just quick fixes, but tools that help you reconnect with yourself, shift your energy, and move from feeling powerless to empowered.
Watch “How to Feel Better INstantly” Here:
Resources Mentioned in “How to Feel Better Instantly”
Video’s that mention the benefits of walking: https://jodiaman.com/?s=walking
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Takeaways from this episode
How to Shift Your Mood When You Are Feeling Low
1. Start with Self-Compassion
When negative emotions show up, your first instinct might be to judge or criticise yourself. Instead, try pausing and offering yourself kindness. Remind yourself that it is okay to feel what you are feeling. Compassion creates space for healing and makes it easier to move forward.
2. Identify Triggers – But Do Not Stress If You Cannot
Sometimes you know exactly why you are upset. Other times, the cause is less clear. You might be tired, hungry, or overwhelmed by small stressors that add up. Din’t discard small triggers, that are valid too. If you can find a trigger, great. If not, accept that your feelings are still valid and worthy of compassion.
3. Take Small, Intentional Actions
Action is a powerful antidote to negative emotions. Write a list of things that are on your mind. Make your bed. Call a friend or go for a walk. Even the smallest task can shift your energy and help you break out of inertia.
4. Rest on Purpose
Rest is not a luxury, it is essential. Sometimes the best thing you can do is give yourself permission to rest. Read a book, listen to music, or even plan some guilt-free time on social media. The key is to make your rest intentional, so it truly recharges you.
5. Declutter Your Space or Your Digital Life
Clearing a counter, organising your phone photos, or tidying up your workspace can do wonders for your mind. Decluttering helps you regain a sense of control and can be a simple way to create positive momentum.
6. Connect and Create
Isolation often makes sadness and anxiety worse. Reach out to someone you trust, or start a creative project. Colouring, crafting, or even filming a quick video can help you process emotions and shift your focus.
7. Use Your Body to Shift Your Mind
Physical movement, like going for a walk or doing a quick stretch, can help release stress and boost your mood. Research shows that walking is especially powerful for mental health, increasing both happiness and resilience.
Summary
- Negative emotions are normal and do not mean you are failing
- Self-compassion is always the best first step
- Small actions can create big changes in your mood
- Intentional rest is productive, not lazy
- Decluttering and creative projects support emotional wellbeing
- Connection with others is a powerful tool for feeling better
Ready to Feel Better?
Remember, you do not need to overhaul your entire life to shift your mood. With a little compassion and a few simple strategies, you can move from feeling stuck to feeling empowered—one small step at a time.
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