I don’t know about you, but I’m on the edge these days. Flooded with negative news in my social feeds and checking my email accounts (yes I have more than one!) can take me from a get-up-to-sunshine day to a rolling-in-the-mud kind of dive in nothing flat!

In addition to all the negativity, they (the ubiquitous “they”) say that the human brain wasn’t made for all the changes that are occurring… much too much and way too fast, life is changing all around us and it can be very difficult to keep up.

I got to thinking about it and I may not have all the answers (that’s for sure!) but a few things come to mind. I’ve been trying them and they seem to help, so may I respectfully share them with you as potential options. If you find the shoe doesn’t fit, just toss them in the dust bin and carry on with your personal joy!

1 – In addition to all the “doggy downer” things you’re getting in your email feeds, look for some “puppy uppers” to balance out the load. A constant diet of nothing but crap doesn’t do anybody any good! Stop following some of the cranky ones and add a few with some beautiful ideas to share.

2 – Leave that darned phone at home at least for a few minutes each day – go for a walk or sit in your yard and meditate without the distraction. Even knowing it is next to you won’t keep it at bay – so experiment a little and see what you can come up with. (I’m ahead of you on this one – don’t use a smart phone and haven’t had a car for years! I know – Luddite! Been using tech since the 70’s – thank you very much – but I don’t use what I don’t need. Don’t have a microwave, either… ha ha)

3 – Maybe read a book, and I’m not talking about geopolitical exposes’… how about something funny? And while you’re at it, maybe read something cute….

4 – Even though they may be created with AI (hate it), you can usually find something to appreciate in the world of art or cute animals in your social feeds that will get you to at least chuckle. There’s some outrageous stuff out there, too!

5 – Go out and hug a tree! And if you don’t have one handy, find a friendly neighbor who will let you hug theirs… just explain it to them and maybe you can start a neighborhood “hug a tree club.”

6 – For exercise, at least get up and stretch once in a while (that’s my inner voice talking to me) and don’t forget to breathe!!! Outside is best when you get the chance… and while you’re at it…

7 – Light rain outside? Go stand in it for a couple of minutes… You’ll be surprised at how refreshing it is.

Add to this list… if you have some good ideas to share, send them along to me at lindathewriter@gmail.com. Maybe I can try them out. Thanks!

There! I feel saner already. How about you?

Linda