Reducing anxiety, boosting energy and strengthening your mind without spending a dime may sound impossible, but according to happiness researcher and “New York Times” bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, it can be done. And all you have to do is tap into your five senses. She explains that understanding the many ways you see, hear, feel, smell and taste can help ground you and says the five senses can lead the way to a happier, more mindful life.
These are the actionable ways you can connect to your awareness and improve your mental health, creativity and energy.
- Take the opposite route - If there’s something you do frequently, like taking a daily walk, Rubin advises doing it the opposite way. She says, “It’s bonkers how hard that is,” but once you get over that initial discomfort, it can tune you into being mindful as you notice different sights, sounds and environments, which can boost creativity and your mood.
- Notice what you smell and taste - These two senses are very connected and your sense of smell is tied to mental health and mood, with research showing that a loss of smell is a significant risk factor for anxiety and depression. To enhance your sense of smell, Rubin suggests plugging your nose while you eat certain foods, like a jelly bean. Without being able to smell it, she says it will just taste sweet, but when you unplug your nose, you’ll notice the complex flavor of cherry or bubblegum or whatever flavor it is. And becoming more attuned to your sense of smell may boost mental health as a result.
- Share sensory moments - If you go to a social gathering and you don’t know anyone, Rubin says a great way to connect with others is to comment on what you see, smell, taste or hear around you. You could say, “I love this song. Do you know the name?” or “Those appetizers look really good. Have you tasted anything? What should I try?” The shared sensory experience will help “tie you to the moment together,” and you’ll feel less social awkwardness.
Source: Mind Body Green
Scott's Thoughts:
- Food is always a good way to strike up a conversation with a stranger!
- Simply changing my walking route. Good idea!
- Loss of smell when I had COVID was the strangest thing!