This time of year especially I find that it is harder to always be that perky person that I am usually am. The sunlight is fading, the days are getting shorter and it is getting colder. I often wish that I was just feeling better. You’ve had days like that, haven’t you? Perhaps you tried to get yourself into a better state of mind but struggled to achieve it.
Sometimes we get stuck in our own emotional dumps and forget how easy it is to feel happier, so here are seven simple ways to lift your mood. Many people have found them useful. Some of them may surprise you!
1. Go for a walk, connect with nature.
Most people know that going for a short daily walk is one of the best forms of exercise. When you are feeling down it is even more beneficial. If you can, go into a natural environment with plants and birds. Can you think of such a setting not? What do you notice first? The different shades of greenery, the fresh smell of country air, the sounds of birds, or the sunlight shining through the trees? Make it real by taking a short stroll. Even in the colder weather, getting outside into nature can have a huge impact even if it is only 15-20 minutes.
2. Listen to quality music.
Music can shift a listener’s state within moments. It’s effect can be nearly magical. Dig out that CD you haven’t listened to in ages or tune in your radio to something you’ve never listened to before. Better yet, spend some time and create a super awesome playlist, don’t forget to add “Don’t worry, be Happy” you will not regret it! If you are able to pick music that is upbeat, 140bpm it will have you up and dancing in no time.
3. Open yourself to discovering something new.
Read something (printed, not on line) different than what you would normally read. There are a ton of different types of magazines can you get these days. Visit your local library or browse through a magazine rack. Pick up or buy a magazine you wouldn’t normally buy. You may discover something wonderful. It would be so much fun to pick a book or magazine that will allow you to discover a new creative hobby.
4. Find something to laugh at.
Laughter is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. Find a humorous book, or watch a comedy. Even better, try to learn a few new jokes and tell them to others. How much fun would it be to watch a open mic night… better yet, get up on stage and tell your jokes.
5. Simple breathing meditation.
Breathing meditation is a great exercise that you can do anywhere. Simply allow yourself to sit comfortably with your back straight. Now close your eyes and become aware of the flow of air into and out of your nostrils. That’s all there is to it. Do this for 10-15 minutes. Notice how pleasantly surprised you can be at how you feel afterward.
6. Doodling for the fun of it.
Most people can remember when they were young and used to doodle for hours. Kids love drawing silly little pictures. Drawing is not just for kids or artists. Whoever you are get some pens, pencils, crayons or whatever you have and just draw for the fun of it. Notice how your state of mind shifts. Use your doodles and art in your next vision board, infuse your doodles with your feelings.
7. Dance!
I am sure that you have heard the saying “dance as if no one is watching”, most of the time there really is no one around. You can turn up the music and dance and dance. Move your body until you are energized and happy. Select music that inspires you and raise your vibrations.
These are all pretty simple. There’s nothing profound or life changing, but when all you need is a quick pick me up these may be just the thing you need. Putting simple ideas, methods, tools and techniques into action will help you achieve change more quick and easily–surprisingly so at time– than you imagine.
