7 Steps to Surviving a Really Bad Day

When things go wrong, it doesn’t mean it needs to continue that way. When having a bad day it’s easy to get caught up in judging the day and ourselves; but don’t focus on everything that is going bad or not working. It’s ok to acknowledge the problem, but focus on what is working Try doing things that will take your mind off of how bad you are feeling about the way your day is going. Remember, positivity attracts positivity..

1. If it is possible at the start of the “troubles”, talk to someone about it. Call up a friend or family member for advice, or sympathy.

2. Listen to a favorite song and sing along. studies have shown that listening to music you like can alter your mood and even alleviate depression. In your iPod, make a “Feel Better”  playlist; try to choose positive, uplifting songs that you can sing along to.

3. Watch a funny YouTube video.

4. Practice deep breathing. Deep breathing has a naturally therapeutic, stress-reducing quality that can help you stop the rush of stress hormones that a bad day can bring about. Take a   few moments to close your eyes. Practice inhaling deeply through your nose for a two- second count, pausing for two seconds, and then exhaling for another two seconds. Thiswill help stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system that quiets down your stress response.

5. Count Your Blessings: Gratitude  has some wonderful benefits for stress management. It's hard to focus on how bad things are when you're focusing on how good things are.

6. Exercise causes a burst of endorphins and the ability to blow off steam can take the negative energy out of your day.

7.  Chocolate: one small piece of very good chocolate, savored provides a quiet break from stress.