Any tips on controlling mania and depression?

So I’m taking the meds (and adding some new ones) and believe that they are helping to some extent. And really, deep down, I hate the idea of being medicated, but I also understand the fact that a person can have a chemical imbalance in their brain that may need to be corrected with medication.
So, all of that said, does anyone have any, more holistic tips for handling manic and depressive stages. I mean for example, I’ll get completely manic at work where I am a hostess and I’m just supposed to sit there and smile and look pretty and seat people. And inside my thoughts are racing and I’m trying not to pace around the entire restaurant and tap my foot, etc.
And then of course sometimes it happens at night and I can sleep and I guess I can take meds for that or read or something.
And then the depressive phase will hit right in the middle of hanging out with friends, which is really unfortunate. And it’s just so hard to pull myself out of it. I’m sure part of it tonight was due to the fact that I had a couple beers.

Does anyone have any tips or mantras or affirmations or whatever you may call it that enable them to center themselves in times of need?

And yes I knowww I need to talk to a therapist. And I’m getting the ball rolling on that very soon. But this subject is hits close to home to a lot of people, I think and I would love to hear what you have to say.

If you’d prefer to send me a private message, that would be equally appreciated.