We all experience low moments where we just feel like we’re in a funk. Sometimes those moments occur for what feels like no reason and we want to shake that off.
There are quite a few things you can do to boost your mood almost immediately.
Music
We tend to play music that matches our mood. So when you play sad music while sad, you will probably just feel more sad.
Instead, put on music that makes you feel happy and positive. One of my favorite artists to play for this purpose is Petit Biscuit. His music is beautiful and uplifting (especially Sunset Lover, Problems, and You).
Watch a feel good movie
Sometimes those stupid comedy movies, chick flicks, or family movies are just what you need to lighten up.
I really like Legally Blonde, Austin Powers, Step Brothers, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and really any cartoon movie for this purpose. It’s even better when you’ve already seen the movie a million times and can recite every line!
Get outside
Nature is healing. Getting some fresh air and sunshine can really make you feel a lot better. Even if it’s raining, you can find a covered area to breathe in the smells and watch the rain fall, it is mesmerizing.
Long walks are literally the highlight of my day. Sometimes I’ll sit near the creek and just listen to the sound of the water rushing over the rocks. It always makes me feel good.
If you can’t get outside, try listening to nature sounds like birds chirping, waves crashing, or even rain falling. You could even display a video of it on your TV/computer!
Move your body
I ALWAYS feel better after exercise. Even if my workout wasn’t the best, I still feel good that I got my body moving and heart rate up.
I love that exercise is so versatile and you don’t need anything to get moving. Of course you could lift some weights or go to a group workout, but you could take a walk, go for a jog, follow a YouTube video, dance, stretch, etc.
Eat fresh foods
When you’re in a bad mood you may reach for the chips and chocolate, but that’s probably not the best idea. These foods will only make you feel worse.
Instead, aim to eat healthy, whole foods such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, apples, berries, and whole grains. A healthy mind starts in the gut, so it’s important to pay attention to your diet regularly.
Create a vibe
I love cozy vibes. Plugging in my string lights, lighting a candle, playing coffee jazz music, and getting under a blanket are a few simple things that will never get old.
On the other hand, maybe you need to let some light in, crack the window open, and diffuse some essential oils like peppermint or lavender.
When you create a “mood” around you that represents how you want to feel it can really make a difference.
Practice gratitude
Write down a few things that you are grateful for or a list of your recent accomplishments.
I find that whatever is causing my low mood is not really a big deal once I start reflecting on the good things in life. It may not make you feel better completely, but it serves as a nice reminder that there are a lot of things to be happy about.
Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee
Coffee and tea are both very comforting to me. The taste, the smell, the experience are all amazing.
In order to boost your mood with a comforting drink, it’s important to do so while present. Allow yourself to “live slow” while you prepare the drink and consume it. Appreciate the aroma, the warmth, the taste, and the simplicity of the moment.
Clean your space
Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and clean up the space around you. You’ll be surprised how much you can do in that time and how much better you’ll feel.
Physical clutter represents stress and chaos. When things are in order you create space and a sense of calm.
Get something done
Push through the bad mood and get at least one important task done for the day. This will make you feel proud and accomplished.
There are some days that I’m not in the best mood, but I still get my things done. At the end of the day I end up feeling much better because of it.
Chat with a friend
Call up a good friend to hang or just chat with. Sometimes all you need is a good venting session with a trusted friend.
You will probably end up laughing and talking about other enjoyable things, naturally boosting your mood further.