“How can I lift my mood and be happy when I feel fed-up, anxious or stressed?” is a question I am often asked by friends and clients.

It isn’t easy, because when we feel low, no matter how cheerful or optimistic we usually are, fear sets in and we think we’ll always be unhappy and alone. 

For instance, have you ever gone through a painful separation, maybe a divorce, the break-up of a close friendship, or unexpectedly losing your job?

I have, and it’s horrible.

Because, no matter how pleasant or hopeful you normally are, we grieve, doubt ourselves and feel we are not acceptable during these moments.

And in this cycle of despair, it is easy to lose hope that anything will ever change.

Life was miserable, during my divorce and for a good two to three years later, and I suffered trying to keep our home, and my children’s life’s together.

I battled to get through each day, avoiding as many social commitments and family obligations as I could. 

Fortunately, I had a steady meditation and yoga practice by then and relied heavily on these timeless skills, teachings and techniques to get through each day.

Some days were better than others.

However, I’m here now.

And in this post, I’ll share five mindfulness-based self-care strategies that can help you feel and stay happier; and recover the joy in your life, no matter what’s happening.