What better way to start the day than with some stress relief and positivity?
There’s always a familiar feeling that greets students heading into the spring semester. The excitement you felt when starting school in the fall is replaced with anticipation for the summer or graduation, for our seniors. This leads to our second semester being filled with procrastination, burn out and an unshakeable sense of restlessness.
On top of this, we’re still taking classes on Zoom. It’s safe to say a lot of us are feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or a mix of the two. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely in major need of something to brighten your mood and mindset — and lucky for you, I have just the thing.
Whether you’re looking to try meditation, establish a positive outlook or better your mental health, these podcasts on Spotify are a great way to start overcoming your second-semester blues.
For those who find themselves in a panicked rush most mornings, this one is for you. By taking just 7-10 minutes out of your morning to meditate with yoga instructor and meditation teacher Lilly Balch, your usual morning stress will be replaced with a sense of peace, relaxation and clarity. Balch guides you through a simple mindfulness practice revolving around finding balance, joy and gratitude, all you have to do is lay back and listen.
According to The Harvard Gazette, mindfulness meditation is directly linked with reduced levels of anxiety and stress, and increased levels of peacefulness, physical relaxation, empathy and awareness. Taking ten minutes out of your morning to help multiple aspects of your mental health seems like a no brainer.
Many of us are spending an unprecedented amount of time with ourselves, so ensuring your relationship with you is in the best shape possible is crucial. If you find you’re starting the day by criticizing yourself, feeling unconfident or just lonely, “The Self Love Fix” is here to save the day.
Hosted by self-love coach Beatrice Kamau, this podcast sets out to re-connect you with yourself. By showing listeners the power of being independent, loving themselves and teaching them how to heal from past emotional wounds, Kamau reminds us just how spectacular alone-time can be. As she gives listeners advice and steps to follow on their self-love journey each week, “The Self Love Fix” quickly becomes a safe space where you can laugh, cry and heal all in one morning.
Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris
Though we all have different answers to the question, “What’s the meaning of happiness?” ABC News anchor Dan Harris brings on a multitude of guests to explore the complexity of that question. After having a panic attack while live on “Good Morning America,” Harris forced himself to take a step back and re-examine how he was handling his mental health. The result? His bestselling book, “10% Happier,” and his podcast of the same name.
While chatting with scientists, teachers, researchers and more, Harris discusses a plethora of topics ranging from social anxiety and stress to relationships and productivity. He also shines a light on the different ways we can train our brains to become the happiest, most compassionate version of ourselves. Whether you’re wanting to lower your anxiety levels, become a happier person or simply hear from a range of intriguing experts, “Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris” is sure to have something for you.
While you’re drinking your coffee, driving to work or just getting ready for the day, consider putting on one of these podcasts to accompany your morning routine. You may find yourself refreshed, energized and excited about your day in a way you haven’t felt in a long time.