What do we do when we are in negative states of mind like when we are stressful, when something unexpected event happens, when we are sad, miserable, angry, irritated, frustrated, anxious, depressed, resentful or vengeful etc., Our mind goes into consumption mode and we would not be in a state of giving. Now the consumption could be in any form like eating junk foods loaded with sugar, salt and fats, we could splurge on buying something that we do not need as such, we would consume data through scrolling social media or binge watch on videos etc.,
Generally we all indulge in these kind of activities which give us instant gratification because our rational part of the brain is short circuited during stressful times for us to make better decisions which is more beneficial in the long term. When things seem out of control and when we are in fear, we tend to latch on to something that gives us a sense of control and solace for time being. Doing all these things which gives us immediate pleasure would release dopamine which gives us a sense of reward and hope temporarily.
Maybe we all can indulge in these kinds of consumption behaviour from time to time but what we need to strive for and try our best is to expend our energy both physically and mentally. When we expend our energy and move our body with an intention to become better, we get a rush of endorphins which are natural feel good hormones produced by our body. we need to do things that makes us feel empowered and gives a sense of achievement like exercising, meditation, deep breathing, yoga, journaling, walking, spending some time in sunlight, helping others, supporting and giving your services to make others lives better, doing some social work etc., All these activities needs our effort, time and will power which brings the power back to the our neocortex brain which enables to make better judgements.
Eating healthy nutritious food, sticking to your routine like exercising, sleeping, hydrating and spending some time under sunlight, doing meditation or deep breathing or yoga are actually more essential when you are in stressful times in your life. Try to make a habit spending energy and your time on things that needs effort instead consuming stuff during negative phases of your life.
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