I’ll spare you a long introduction because, let’s face it, we all know what tough days feel like. I’ve created this list of uplifting practices based on advice from some of my favorite teachers. I do most of them daily. I intentionally created this list to be accessible to anyone, including parents of young children (like me), in that you can do nearly everything on the list with other people/children around in under a couple of minutes. I hope that it helps shift the energy when you need it.

Remember, it’s never too late to reset.

1. Blow bubbles (mindfully). Take a moment to close your eyes, gather up all of the negativity in your body and blow it out into a bubble. Ask the wind to take it away and transform it into love and light. This practice comes from renowned Shaman Sandra Ingerman. You might feel silly, but I guarantee that you will feel lighter once you try it.
2. Feel your feet. I talk about this tip a lot because I do it multiple times a day, and it works. I got this advice from my life coach Arda Ozdemir, and it’s so easy because you can do it anytime and anywhere. Take a few slow breaths and concentrate on the bottoms of your feet for about 10 seconds. By directing your energy there, you send your focus from your head to your body and feel more grounded.
3. Regulate your nervous system with a hug. My friend, yoga instructor, occupational therapist and somatic life coach Hana Raftery says that if your nervous system has fallen out of rhythm and gotten stuck in a distressed state, “‘self-regulation” practices are for sure helpful to shift nervous system states but can have serious limitations. It doesn’t really matter how much or what type of breathwork you do – most bodies will never feel completely safe when they are all alone. Instead of closing your door and doing your breathing exercises solo, this is an invitation to go hug your partner or your friend or your dog or a tree and take some deep breaths with them. Our nervous systems need each other.'” I particularly like to co-regulate with my children, because if I need it, then I know they do, and it’s wonderful for bonding.
4. Light a candle or incense. Those of you who’ve been following along for a few months know that my new obsession is my morning incense. Light it with intention; a personal favorite when I’m having a tough day is “I’m reentering the day with a higher energy, starting now.”
5. Play music or sing. Create a playlist of upbeat songs that make you happy and keep it on standby for moments like these. Moana soundtrack, anyone?