On the surface, it might seem like a simple thing. But you’re probably aware that your mood plays a powerful role in your wellbeing.
Even so, a lot of the time, we don’t really check in with our moods. We assume they’re passing things. And while that’s usually true, the patterns in our moods can tell us a lot about ourselves.
If you’re looking for a way to tune in and get a better handle on things during Emotional Wellness Month this October, try tracking your moods. Here are four benefits you could gain from the exercise:
Hold space for yourself
Whether you live with a hectic schedule and a never-ending to-do list, you have trouble tuning out the din of our ultra-connected world, or you’re just not in the habit of checking in, mood tracking can help you pause and drop a pin. You might realize you’ve been feeling tense (is your jaw clenched?) or exhausted (could you doze off right now?) without even being aware of it.
With a quick mood check, you gain present-mindedness. You might get clarity about what your body or mind has been trying to tell you it needs. Then, you can act on it. What sounds good to you right now? An afternoon off, a meal with friends, or some fresh air could help boost your mood.
Learn what works — and what doesn’t
When you track your mood, you start to get a feel for what affects you. If you notice that you always have a low mood after a specific activity or seeing a certain person, it could be an indicator that it’s time to lessen your engagement with that thing.
Similarly, tracking your mood can help you pinpoint how lifestyle choices make you feel. You might notice your mood is better when you stick to a set sleep schedule or eat fewer processed foods, for example.
To help you figure out what impacts your mood, you might want to note the following along with your mood:
- What you did today
- Who you saw
- Your sleep hours the previous night
- What you ate
- Your exercise, if any
- The weather
- Your hormonal fluctuations
- How you’re feeling physically
- What you did for fun/stress-relief today
Take care of your relationships
If you’re in a low mood, you’re probably not going to be able to be your best self with your friends and family. Tracking your moods can give you a heads-up so you can do the same for your loved ones. It’s perfectly fair to tell someone you’re not having the best day. With that precursor, they’ll know not to take things personally and they can be gentler in your interactions.
Know when it’s time to get help
Low moods are totally normal. You might be feeling down now, but keep an eye on how you feel in an hour, in a day, and in a week.
If your low mood hangs around for more than two weeks, you might benefit from talking with a mental health professional about it. You don’t have to feel sad, listless, anxious, or any other negative way long-term. Here at the Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center, we have a variety of tools — from therapy to holistic healing — that we can use to help you combat your low mood.
Tips for tracking your moods
If you’re ready to try mood tracking, you’re probably wondering how to get started.
Tracking your moods can be simple. You might get a little notebook and jot down how you’re feeling at similar times each day (e.g., when you wake up, when you get home from work or school). You might even keep your mood tracking in a note in your phone.
You could also use a pre-made chart or make your own.
Tracking your moods doesn’t have to be complicated. And it can give you strong insights into how you feel and what you need. If you realize you deal with a low mood more than you thought, we’re here to help. When you’re ready, get in touch with our team at the Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center.
