12 Things I Do When I’m Feeling Down

My tried and true techniques for a better mood

Everyone feels depressed and anxious from time to time. However, some of us are more susceptible to it than others. I’m one of those folks that struggle to keep an even keel and to fend off depression and anxiety.

I’ve been this way for many years, and as a result, I’ve come up with a plan for dealing with it when I do feel bad. These twelve things work for me, and I hope they can work for you too.

I remember it always passes

There is one thing that has been true every single time I’m depressed or anxious: I get over it. It passes. And most often, that which I was worried about happening never comes to pass. Feeling bad is temporary.

I breathe deeply and meditate

My go-to move is five deep, measured breaths. I do that if I can’t be alone in a peaceful spot to meditate. That always gives me a measure of calm.

If I can, I meditate. There are a ton of techniques, but here is how I do it: I take a deep breath and focus on the exhale. I count each exhalation and go until I lose focus and forget what number I am on. If I am not 100% sure what the next number is, I start over. I usually set a goal to reach before I stop, usually twenty. It often takes me three or four tries to make it.

I’ve gotten better at it and continue to increase the number that I can reach. (My record is 55) Mediation…