5 SIMPLE HABITS TO IMPROVE YOUR MOOD

Life can be stressful, and it’s not unusual to sometimes struggle with maintaining a positive outlook throughout the day. However, there are some simple habits that you can develop that can have tremendous impacts on your daily mood and overall sense of well-being. Let’s take a look at a few mood-boosting hacks to incorporate into your routine! 

 Go for a Walk

Have you considered taking a break and disengaging from the world a bit? This doesn’t have to be a long or drawn-out process. Simply taking five or ten minutes and committing yourself to a daily walk can go a long way. Whether it’s a walk around your neighborhood in the evening, or a walk to get a coffee during your lunch break, it’s a great way to clear your mind and ultimately boost your mood and energy levels.

 Drink Coffee

While it’s not good to overindulge, of course, research shows that caffeine does more than improve your energy levels. It can actually help increase your mood, too. That means that starting your day off with a mug of coffee might do more than just awaken your senses. With that said, avoid drinking too much or overloading your cup with sugary creamers.

Meditate

Maybe you’re not a morning person, so beginning your day with meditation serves as an excellent start to your day and mood enhancer. And you don’t have to be an expert to reap its benefits. Simply take a few moments to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and clear your mind, allowing your mind and body to be mentally prepared for the day. Regular meditation can have significant positive effects on your mood, even if you only have a few minutes to spare. And now mediation is easier than ever with various apps that can walk you through a mediation exercise at any time of the day!

Embrace Nature

Spending time outdoors is a great way to enhance your overall mood. For instance, breathing fresh air can raise oxygen levels in your brain, which in turn boosts serotonin levels – the neurotransmitter which controls your mood. Research also shows that enjoying time in nature may significantly reduce anxiety, depression, and anger.

Keep a Journal

Writing in a diary might seem like something you’ve outgrown, but daily journaling can actually be quite the boon to your mental health. In fact, sitting down for just ten or twenty minutes a day can help improve your mood dramatically and better enable you to work through any negative emotions you might be experiencing. It is also a great form of self-reflection or daily gratification.

You may find that every day is different, and there are some things you can’t control. However, you do have control over how you react to life’s stressors or curveballs. Try to find silver lining and positives in every day, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it!

***Written for Meridian Counseling by Stephanie James. Stephanie is a writer by day, and fitness enthusiast by night. She loves to cover all things wellness and fitness, and encourage others to make their health a priority.