Change Location to Shift Your Mindset

Move—even just to another room, or step outside

Changing your physical space can help shift your mental and emotional state. Whether it’s stepping into another room, going for a walk, or spending time in a calming place, a change of scenery can create a much-needed break from the mental loop or emotional heaviness you may be experiencing. Often, the space where we feel overwhelmed becomes associated with that state of mind—so simply moving elsewhere can help interrupt that pattern.

Psychological research supports this: changing your environment can significantly impact mood and thought patterns. For example, a study by Berman et al. (2008) found that spending time in natural environments reduces stress and enhances cognitive function. Similarly, the concept of “restorative environments,” developed by Kaplan & Kaplan (1989), highlights how certain settings can support emotional and mental recovery.