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We all go through rough times in our life, some suffer more than others, but sadness is hard no matter what. One day you may feel ok, the next you feel miserable, maybe you even feel those mood fluctuations by the minute. Just know that you are not alone, even if it may feel like it.

I am currently at the end of a rough week. I don’t want to go into detail, but it’s been difficult to keep my head up and my emotions tranquil. For me, it’s generally easy to hide my sadness while at work or talking to people, but when I’m alone it’s a different story. Read below for some simple ideas on how to boost your mood and remember that no matter what, everything will be ok!

1. Face the problem head on
I was going to list this as the last one, but I think this is important. Sometimes we may not know why we’re sad, but usually we do. Instead of trying to avoid the situation, face it, and attempt to fix it. It may be hard, but it just may be the push you need to get over it.

2. Get to the gym
Of course I have to include this! The gym is my #1 anger, sadness, AND happiness outlet. Simply because I love the gym. Yes, there are days that I don’t want to workout, but the gym is where I can go to feel strong and I always leaving feeling better! If you have a lot of emotion, I suggest pushing yourself as hard as you can. Blast music in your ears (Linkin Park is my choice), lift heavy weights, run faster, sweat more, and let it all go. Not only are you releasing endorphins and anger, but you’re improving your body too! Just be careful. ?

3. Journal/Write
Write whatever comes to your mind, write what you’re feeling, what you want to feel instead. Remember, no one has to see this. It’s really powerful what writing your feelings down can do, maybe it will help you realize your emotions as you come back to read them, maybe it will put things into perspective.

4. Reorganize or decorate your room
Sometimes you just need a change in your life. Simple things like hanging up artwork or buying a new lounge chair can really boost your mood and creativity. If you have a spending problem be careful with this, you could always try DIY home decor instead!

5. Clean
I know I’m not the only one who feels the desire to clean when I’m anxious or sad. Deep clean everything or try tidying up where you are most often. It’s like a fresh start and it’s definitely distracting.

6. Paint and/or color
I love painting. It’s like a form of meditation for me. I zone out and just focus on what I am doing. I have gone to several BYOB painting classes and each time I experience that same state of mind. I also have one of those adult coloring books that I have yet to try, but I have heard many people say it does the same thing for them! Those books are everywhere!

7. Meditate
My goal for the month of May was to meditate daily for at least 10 minutes, unfortunately I’ve definitely fallen short. I need to take my own advice and meditate. Meditating is hard, which is often why I avoid it, but it has so many benefits and you can only get better at mastering your mind with practice. I go to a meditation center every week to meditate for 40 minutes, but when I’m home I use the app called Calm. There are countless resources out there so try what works best for you.

8. Take a nap/Sleep
Sometimes sleep can be so helpful during sad times. Don’t oversleep, that probably won’t help you. Maybe getting a snooze in will boost your mood though!

9. Get outside
Go by yourself or with your friend and hike some trails or go to the pool. Reflect on your thoughts and on nature. Unfortunately many of us take the beauty and healing properties of nature for granted, there are limitless places to explore! Sunshine puts me in a better mood and plus you could do several of the ideas listed above all while enjoying the great outdoors!

10. Listen to music
When I’m sad or angry, I typically end up listening to similar music (such as Linkin’ Park, Eminem, and Evanescence) which often makes me more sad and angry. Once you get through that phase (or skip that phase) try listening to something upbeat that makes you want to dance!

11. Watch a funny movie/show/video
I could think of many things to watch that would make me laugh. I remember when I had tough times during high school I would watch Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory, it never, ever failed to make me laugh! The video below is called “Company is Coming,” and it’s absolutely hysterical, check it out if you haven’t already!

What do you do when you’re feeling sad that helps make things better?