Everyone has their own morning routine. For many, rolling over and checking their phone after shutting off the alarm is first on the list. We spend time scrolling through our social media feeds; observing the good and bad before we even get out of bed!
Over the past year or so I feel like I’ve woken up to more negative than anything. Headlines always seem to be filled with news of conflict and tragedy. I can open Facebook and see videos of unarmed black men being shot by police. I can open Twitter and see The President of the United States aimlessly ranting about who knows what. I might even open Snapchat and watch a snap story of a colleague who decided to show everyone just how racist she can be.
All of this is to say that sometimes we just need to step back from our news feed. As a journalism major I am all for news, I even have news alerts sent to my phone. The things we see in the news can really affect us mentally. It gets tiring seeing these negative topics circulating. You get to a point where you’re desensitized to some of the things you see, and to me that’s not okay.
It is okay to take a step back, unsubscribe, or tune everything out and focus on yourself. Practice self-care often and don’t allow yourself to get so absorbed in everything that’s going on. Here are some things you might consider doing while you’re tuning out your news feed.
1. Start your day with positivity.
Instead of opening up your social media and news apps first thing in the morning put your phone down. Grab a journal and start writing down what you’re thankful for, positive affirmations, any happy thoughts! Set the tone for a positive day, even if it seems like the world isn’t quite on the same page.
2. Pamper yourself.
There’s not much that makes me feel better than a nice warm shower and lots of pampering. Bring out all your favorite shower gels, loofahs and scrubs! Afterwards you can do your nails, make a facemask and watch your favorite Disney Channel throwback (This is key! Disney Channel days were the best!). It’s important to take some time for yourself so why not go all out.
3. Open up a book.
Remember when you used to read books for fun? As college students there is hardly time to read anything that isn’t written on a syllabus. Of course you shouldn’t neglect your studies, but taking a little time off to read a chapter of a novel isn’t too bad. Try to feed your mind something that isn’t so saturated.
4. Listen to music.
Music has a major impact on your mood. If you’re feeling frustrated put on some of your favorite songs! You can also search for some new ones while you’re at it. Just let the music play and be in the moment.
5. Go outside!
Yes, the great outdoors still exists! Grab some friends and go out to explore. Go for a bike ride through downtown or hike up the mountains to see a different view of the city. Leave your phones in your pocket and enjoy your day!
6. Delete your apps.
That’s right. I’ve done it before and it is one the best ways to really unplug. Deleting your apps can be temporary and it won’t delete your actual accounts. You might find yourself instinctively clicking the space where Twitter used to be, but it’s worth it! Try doing it for a weekend and see how much clearer your mind is!