#1. Reach out to your friends.
It’s time to get together with one or some of your favorite friends. Talk out your sorrow, pain and fears. Getting out your negative thoughts can be helpful and having a friend by your side will help you feel cared about. That’s a positive step in the right direction towards feeling better.
#2. Hug a baby animal.
If you have access to puppy or a kitten, give it a big cuddle. If you don’t, the next best thing is to watch videos of baby animals. This is a seriously great go-to if you’re feeling bummed out. Animal shelters regularly drop into senior centers with dogs or cats as it’s proven animals boost your mood.
#3. Write it out.
Write out everything on paper when you feel down to help release those negative emotions. Putting your feelings into words has been scientifically proven to be an effective way of boosting your mood.
#4. Go take a walk.
Walk for 20 minutes and the body will release endorphins to your brain which give you a relaxed, euphoric feeling. Exercising has the same effect.
#5. Get out and do something.
Sitting around and wallowing in negative emotions only perpetuates the feeling. While it may be the hardest thing to do when you feel down, getting out and doing something can improve your mood. Go watch a movie, head to the mall or go sit in a coffee shop and watch the world move around you.
#6. Give someone a hug.
Scientists say that to survive, we should have and give at least four hugs a day. The act of physical touching in a loving way reduces stress and makes you feel happier. Why? Oxytocin, baby.
#7. Look at some old photos.
Looking back at your life can have positive effects on your mood. If the moment wasn’t great, you might feel appreciative for where you are today. If it was taken during a great time of your life, you’ll feel grateful for your life experiences.
#8. Try to make yourself laugh.
Watch a funny movie or just laugh out loud for no good reason at all. If you can laugh when you’re down, this will lift you up almost immediately.
#9. Take time out to nurture yourself.
Some ways you can boost your mood include yoga, meditation and visualization. You may be new to this idea but when you’re willing to give it a try, there are millions of videos online.
#10. Make sure to be grateful.
While you may have some good reasons to feel down, don’t forget about the good things happening in your life. Write out five things you’re grateful for daily. Part of getting out of the darkness you’re feeling is to shed some light onto it.