List #71 - 5 things that just make sense if you need to calm down (like, right now)

Hi. Are you feeling panicky, maybe full of rage? Whether PMS-induced or not (and by the way, my luteal phase is one long fever dream of rage!), its time we take some actionable steps to achieving calm. This is my five-step routine to getting there, tested through many unpleasant moments. You don’t have to do all of these, but I highly recommend at least two or three.

1. I go outside immediately.

   Please don’t roll your eyes. If this is the only thing you do, that’s wonderful. Something about fresh air+perspective allows me to reset almost instantly.

2. I run up our hill.

   Instant rage-reducer. We live in Marin County so have plenty of access to GREAT hills for managing crazy thoughts and anger. If you don’t have access to a great hill, however, I suggest 15 jumping jacks or lifting a heavy weight thirty times (yes, thirty seems to be the magic number - I do three sets of ten reps).

3. I cook something.

   Once I’ve done my outside time and moved a bit, I find that cooking helps me calm down even more. I should have mentioned before, my phone is turned over and likely in a different room this whole time. No phones allowed. I don’t care of your mom is calling you. I PROMISE SHE WILL UNDERSTAND (but maybe shoot her a quick text to say you’re doing Isabelle’s Five-Step Routine to Calming Down). Anyways, back to cooking. Cooking is mundane but also creative. You will also feel like you’ve accomplished something very wholesome.

4. I read a book or magazine for ten minutes.

   Articles work great for this, but it has to be something that won’t rile you up, which I know in these times is extremely difficult. Try The New Yorker’s Humor section, or even New York Magazine and just start hunting around for something interesting.

5. I take an Almost-Everything Shower.

   I rarely have time for an Everything Shower, but I do have time for an Almost-Everything Shower. If you need to skip shaving or a face mask, totally fine. But maybe don’t skip both! You need to feel pampered.