1. LOG OFF OF SOCIAL MEDIA. I’m serious. You can even go as far as deleting the apps and re-installing them later. You don’t have to go as far as me and get rid of your snapchat account (which has minimized my feelings of anxiety and loneliness by like 90%), but scaling back is good and your life isn’t going to end if you stay off of IG, Snapchat, FB, etc for a few days, weeks, or even months. After a week or so away, you might even be pleasantly surprised and find that you prefer the peace and quiet. 

2. DO SOME KIND OF POSITIVE AND REFLECTIVE JOURNALING. I started my own “positivity journal” back in August and this is the first time that I have stuck with journaling for so long and actually find it enjoyable. It helps me find the good in my life and reminds me of what I want. If you are interested in starting your own, I can write a longer post about mine but here are things you could include to get you started: 

> Self-Reminders (positive affirmations about yourself, inspiring and important things you don’t want yourself to forget, etc) 

> Things to Work On ( actions/mentality to avoid and ones to practice)

> Healthy Habits (that you want to adapt into your routine)

> Free-writing space (you can answer self-reflection prompts or write whatever’s on your mind)

> Life goals, Daily Gratefulness, Inspiring Quote of the Day/Week, Positivity Playlist, Creative Projects to Try, etc the possibilities are endless

3. NATURE WALKS. Leave your phone at home and bring your dog and maybe a friend. The fresh air always clears my head and makes me feel more alert and awake, especially because it is a little bit crisp and chilly now. 

4. NETFLIX IN MODERATION. If you’re a student like me you probably don’t have that much time to binge watch anyway but I mostly just watch Netflix on weekends. Doing this makes it more enjoyable because it’s like a reprieve from a long week of work. Occasional Netflix binges are ok but you don’t want watching TV shows to be your only escape and coping mechanism. 

5. NAPS. Studies have shown that short naps are beneficial to get you out of a slump and can make you feel more focused. I take 20-30 min naps sometimes after school and (a big snack) before tackling my homework and I feel like it helps since I get home feeling drained almost every day. 

6. MOISTURIZE. I always feel better after washing my face and putting on a good lotion. Idk why but it just works.