Utilizing specific methods to deal with emotions has been such a critical contributor to my ability to maintain a healthy mind and outlook. It’s always been so interesting to hear about the routines that other people use when they’re feeling down, because it amazes me at how different everyone is. We all have our own preferred ways to deal with stress or sadness. Today, I wanted to share some of mine – in no particular order:

1. Music

Music is such an important part of my life. In terms of emotional regulation, I have specific playlists catered to different emotions. I often use the emotional feelings that certain songs evoke to uplift my own mood. At other times, I can use slow, sad songs to help me work through emotions that I’m feeling, before pivoting to more cheerful music.

2. Singing in the car

This is tied pretty closely with the first point, but I find that the act of belting out my favorite songs often helps to clear my mind and release any pent-up emotions. Whether it’s in the car or in the shower, it just needs to be a relatively private space where I can let myself be carried away by the songs.

3. Hot shower in the dark

This is so basic but so useful, and I’ve added my own twist to it. Hot showers are always great – they relax my body and are just so comforting. To amplify the effect, I turn the lights off and just use two nightlights. Doing this essentially removes the sense of sight and allows me to really feel the sensations of the water running down my body, if that makes sense.

4. Walks in nature

Getting some fresh air and taking a walk through green spaces helps remind me of the beauty of life. I find that even just taking a stroll through my neighborhood can ground me and provide some perspective. I also love taking walks when I’m feeling a bit drained of energy, because being outside just refreshes me so well.

5. Exercise

This one is a classic, but that’s just because it works so well. I don’t think I’ve ever left an exercise session – whether it’s going to the gym, going rollerblading, or playing tennis – feeling worse emotionally than I did going into it. There’s something so satisfying and primal about breaking a sweat and pushing yourself physically.

6. Talking to myself

This, along with journaling, is my favorite way to really clear out any lingering thoughts. Sometimes events from the day or upcoming stressors don’t appear to be on my mind, but remain instead in the background like a quiet undercurrent of anxiety. Talking out loud helps me vocalize whatever circumstance is actually behind how I feel and bring it to light, where I can deal with it logically and intentionally. I’ve definitely had days where I just felt melancholy for no reason, and talking out loud has always helped me find the root of where the mood originated.

Ultimately, knowing these release methods has made dealing with stress much easier, because I understand what my mind will respond to and what will work for my emotions.