Feeling on top of the world is worth more than meth.
When you smoke or snort meth, you get a flood of chemicals in your brain that make you feel good. The problem? That feeling is very short-lived, and things can become dangerous very quickly.
We ALL want to feel good. Here are some ways you can experience a natural high without turning to meth. Best of all, these alternative activities can be safely repeated to give you the lift you need, whenever you need it.
1. Laugh.
It might sound crazy, but laughing triggers hormones in your brain that make you feel amazing––and it works way faster than any drug, including meth. You can actually experience instant euphoria by watching a comedy special that leaves you in stitches, re-telling funny stories, or cracking up over hilarious cat videos on YouTube.
2. Practice gratitude.
Sometimes, things just suck. The world can feel like a negative place, and that can lead to feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Practicing gratitude can be a powerful yet easy way to get out of a funk––and, if done daily, can even prevent you from feeling down to begin with.
Look for a few things each day that you’re grateful for––little things, like a cool breeze on a hot day, getting a friendly lick from an adorable puppy, or finding the perfect parking spot at the mall.
By consistently acknowledging what you’re grateful for, you can make a positive, lasting change to your outlook that will help you get through even the darkest days.
3. Stop what you’re doing and try one of these activities.
As simple as they sound, they can help lift your mood––and many of them can be done from just about anywhere.
- Speed walk to the corner and back.
- Hug a tree for 20 seconds.
- Go outside for some fresh air. If possible, take off your shoes and stand or walk in grass for a few minutes.
- Turn up the volume and jam out to your favorite song.
- Grab a coloring book and color.
- Cloud gaze.
- Hum your favorite song.
- Drum on some homemade bongos.
4. Activate the oxytocin in your body.
Oxytocin is known as the “love hormone” or “cuddle chemical,” and can bring on feelings of relaxation and happiness that last way longer than any drug, including meth.
You can trigger the release of oxytocin by kissing someone for at least six seconds, hugging someone (pets included!) for at least 20 seconds, or giving/receiving a massage.
