5:30 AM: I’m awoken by the piercing screams of my alarm clock. As I run through my usual morning routine before heading out the door, it seems like nothing is going well. Dress pants still wet, brain fog thicker than ever, and everything in between. It doesn’t take long for the negative thoughts to pour in.

5:30 PM: Despite the rush hour traffic, I am appreciative for the moment. As the evening goes on, I do the things that make me happy and feel proud of myself for the day’s accomplishments— big or small.

That’s the beauty of “perspective is reality.” We can reclaim our day from whatever negative stressor is taking it away from us. Transforming not only the way we look at things, but exactly what we look at, can play a big part in the way we feel. Energy flows where intention goes. Here are some potential tactics that may help the next time you’re needing to reclaim your day.

Music & Podcasts

If you’re feeling more anxious than usual or potentially overstimulated, try listening to calming music. (I usually use “yoga/stretching/meditation music” to search for new, mellow tracks.) On the other hand, the trials and tribulations of the day may have you feeling more inclined to some uplifting, upbeat tunes. (“Walking to work” is a great search for finding some pick-me-up gems.) Either way, feeding your mind positive sound waves are a great way to spark a positive mood.

Listening to podcasts and audiobooks that you enjoy can also bring a fresh perspective into your day, and redirecting your attention towards things that make you happy is the perfect way to have a good day.

Mindfulness

Practicing presence by taking the time to notice your surroundings (aroma, sounds, colors, etc.) for just five minutes can do wonders for increasing the level of gratitude felt throughout the day. Five minutes of scribbling down what you feel grateful for today in a journal is another great tool for practicing mindfulness. To realign mind, body, and spirit, positively stimulating and energetically detoxing these vital aspects of self is the perfect way to realign.

Mentally. Mediation, breath work, and affirmations. Check out this blog for affirmation templates to make your own. Aura is a great app for guided mediations, peaceful soundscapes, hypnoses, and more.

Physically. Yoga, walking, exercise, stretching, or even resting. This podcast is great for guided yoga sessions. (You can also find some on YouTube.) Listening to your body and determining the physical detox that you may need will help to decide the right course of action to take.

Emotionally. Socialize, reflect, release, and journal. Try to organize your mind, freshen your space, and manifest peace of mind— whatever that looks like for you.