Ways to Boost Your Mood

Experiencing highs and lows is a natural part of life. As we look back on our life, the highs will typically be some of our best memories, and the lows might be things we still struggle with to this day. It is always important to remember that the lows are not forever, and with some simple strategies, you can help yourself to bust out of any ruts you may be feeling stuck in due to whatever has got you feeling down.

• Exercise: One of the fastest and easiest ways to boost your mood is with some good old fashioned physical activity. Research has shown that exercise can reduce anxiety and depression, while improving self-esteem and cognition. It’s also been proven to be one of the most effective methods of stress reduction.
• Friends: Talking with a friend about your feelings, or venting about what’s stressing you out is a great mood lifter. Talking about your feelings can diminish the response in the area of your brain where stress is felt. Turning to a friend can not only help you through your negative emotions, it can also literally change the response in your brain.
• Gratitude: When you’re feeling down, it's easy to trap yourself into thinking only about the bad. By shifting your outlook, and focusing on the positive parts of your life, whatever it is that makes you happy or you feel grateful for, you can give your brain a more positive perspective. Experts recommend choosing at least one thing you’re grateful for each day, and writing it down in a gratitude journal.