JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE may-june 2015 | Page 55

chirping), and allow your mind to focus on the different melodies, instruments, or singers in the piece,” Benninger says. You also can blow off steam by rocking out to more upbeat tunes -- or singing at the top of your lungs! 9. Get Moving You don’t have to run in order to get a runner’s high. All forms of exercise, including yoga and walking, can ease depression and anxiety by helping the brain release feel-good chemicals and by giving your body a chance to practice dealing with stress. You can go for a quick walk around the block, take the stairs up and down a few flights, or Joy feelings magazine do some stretching exercises like head rolls and shoulder shrugs. 10. Be Grateful Keep a gratitude journal or several (one by your bed, one in your purse, and one at work) to help you remember all the things that are good in your life. “Being grateful for your blessings cancels out negative thoughts and worries,” says Joni Emmerling, a wellness coach in Greenville, NC. Use these journals to savor good experiences like a child’s smile, a sunshinefilled day, and good health. Don’t forget to celebrate accomplishments like mastering a new task at work or a new hobby