11 Ways To Calm Down (Quickly) in 2021

Amid a barrage of so-tragic-its-almost-comical news, I’ve found it more important than ever to have tools for preservation and restoration.

Here’s what I’m doing to save my mind and body from imploding:

  1. Get physical in tiny, tangible ways. Bunny hop. Downward dog. Spread your wings and swan dive. Bonus points if you’re in front of a full length mirror.

  2. Breathe all the way in. Every time you feel a tension in your body or your brain, that’s the cue for breath.

  3. Pace your productivity. If you have some wind in your sails, ride the wave and don't stop until it’s gone. If you’re not feeling it, take a nap like it’s your number one business.

  4. Turn off the news. Whatever live-stream or group chat you’re getting it from will be there when you get back. Prioritize peace.

  5. Put ‘em on mute. Any social accounts that make you feel bad, sad, or mad - including the toxically positive and patronizingly motivational - need to go. They’re not for you, not for now.

  6. Phone a friend. Ask question you’ve never asked them before and see where it leads.

  7. Brew some (CBD) tea. Say less.

  8. Chop vegetables. It’ll soak up a lot of time and attention, two things the devil stole from you this week. Only this time, you’ll have something healthy to eat at the end.

  9. Take a hot shower. One of the simplest ways to reset and slough off the bad vibes.

  10. Wash the dishes. Something about emptying the sink makes me feel like a very accomplished human. What about you?

  11. Read a book. Whether it inspires you to action or lulls you to sleep, it’ll be a win either way.