16 Ways to Feel Calmer Now

There's so much going on in the world that's completely out of your control. But what you can do is tidy up the messiness inside your own mind. By addressing nagging worries, doing a bit of housekeeping, and injecting your life with a shot of simplicity, you can open up space for more love, optimism, and joy. Here's how to feel better fast.

- By Marisa Cohen

1 Consciously forgive someone

If you're still nursing a wound because you weren't invited to a wedding years ago, consider shedding the burden. Sometimes you may fear that you're 'giving in' if you let go of a grudge, but you're just giving yourself the opportunity not to let something that happened in the past affect your future, says Elana Miller, M.D., an integrative psychiatrist in Los Angeles. Not only will the act of forgiveness help you move on, but also research has shown that it can lower levels of anxiety and stress.

2 Take a slow sip of tea

Cradling a cup of tea in your hands can make you feel cozy and at peace, and being mindful can boost the benefits, says New York City-based meditation instructor Kirat Randhawa. Notice the color of the tea leaves, the shape of the mug, the scent, what the tea tastes like, and how it feels in the body, she says. Harney & Sons Yellow & Blue Tea, which combines calming chamomile, lavender, and cornflowers, is an extra-relaxing sip.

3 Get that worrisome thing checked out

You know, that mole, pain, or bump you tell yourself is nothing (you're probably right!) but that you're not 100% sure about. Such things can gnaw at you, and research tells us uncertainty is a lot more stressful than knowing what to expect, good or bad. So have a doctor look at it already! Either you'll breathe a sigh of relief or you'll get it treated right away. Often what seems like a big deal for you is routine for your doctor-they've seen it all and can take some of the worry off your plate, says Dr. Miller.

4 Take one small action