Ten tonics for a sh!tty day

Having a bad day? Well that can happen, but as many writers, philosophers and Tik Tok* stars will tell you, it's about how you respond to the challenges and setbacks that face us... Here is, in no particular order, a list of things that you can use to respond, not react:

1. Play a favourite tune or two on headphones. Loud. Motorhead's version of Heroes is high on my list

2. Look through the photos on your phone for a few minutes. Recall the good times, see the beautiful and the quirky around you

3. Eat some really good** chocolate

4. Call someone you haven't spoken to in a while, if it's too early or late, message them

5. Go outside for a few minutes, walk around the block or neighborhood. Smile at people as you pass them

6. Take a long hot bath (book, wine, music and candles are optional) bubbles are a must - it is hard to be grumpy surrounded by lavender scented bubbles

7. Do a two minute breathing exercise

8. Make a cup of tea or coffee just the way you like it. Slow down a little and make it with focus and attention. Drink it the same way

9. If you keep a journal, write out your feelings, name them and get them onto the page (this helps get the feelings with those words out of your system too)

10. Find a seat outside, maybe at a bus stop, in a mall or a park. Close your eyes and just listen to the sounds around you

So next time your day isn't going like you would want it to, try one or more of these to lift your spirits

*Wisdom really can be found in the most unexpected places

**Good is oh so relative, I like 85% dark chocolate but if you like salted caramel, milk, white or marbled have at it - it's YOUR pick me up no one else's!