6 Easy Ways to Boost Your Mood

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Feeling sad, tired, stressed out or just in a bad mood? It happens. So what are you going to do about it?

All too often people look for a pick-me-up in all the wrong places. You know…binge-watching shows, eating too much, going on a shopping spree, or drinking too much. There’s always a letdown, right?

Want to boost your mood without the Let-Down Effect?

Here are six easy ways to boost your mood.

1. Pay attention to your mood

It’s a good place to start. Instead of just trying to put on a happy face, pay attention to how you’re feeling. You might be in a bad mood for one or more reasons, such as:

Fatigue
Irritability
Trouble sleeping
Sadness
Stress
Anxiety
Body aches and pains
Forgetfulness
Poor eating habits

If you’re having “one of those days,” you’re not alone. There’s no secret sauce to beat the blues, but you can do something about it.

2. Be active

Just 20 to 30 minutes of daily walking, yoga, or other exercise can improve your mood as well as physical health. It burns up stress hormones, and stimulates the mind to help you relax and think better about your problems.

3. Breathe

This good mood tip might sound too simple when you’re feeling down or depressed, but it really works. Try it:

Take 10 deep breaths.
Inhale, then exhale…slowly.

Deep breathing has a calming effect that can reduce stressful feelings such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Making this a regular habit can also help lower blood pressure and increase your energy level.

4. Get your Zzzs

You might be tempted to stay up late during and skimp on sleep. But when you don’t get enough sleep, hormones linked to stress, depression, and anxiety go up. This can lead to fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, and other health problems.

Aim to sleep 7 to 8 hours a night. If that’s a challenge, take a nap during the day too.

5. Eat a healthy diet.

If you’re in a bad mood, take a closer look at your diet. Most of your food should come from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats along with plenty of water.

If your diet looks a little SAD (Standard American Diet), you’re probably eating a lot more burgers, fries, soda and highly-processed foods. If that’s the case, start eating healthier, and you’ll feel better.

6. Spend time with family and friends.

Feeling isolated? Thanks a lot COVID-19 lockdowns. If you spend a lot of time alone, you may be feeling lonely and isolated. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Call a friend. Set up a video call. Meet for dinner. Or plan to cook a meal at home. Social connection can have a positive impact on your health and happiness.