
Try these methods to turn that frown upside down:
- Find something to fix. Do you have some household chores that can be done? Is a faucet leaking in the kitchen or bathroom? Physical activity combined with fixing something around you can be a powerful way to lift your spirits.
- Whether you fix a broken door handle, leaking faucet, or sew on a button, these simple fixes matter. They’re distracting, easy, and fulfilling at the same time.
- Even changing a lightbulb can make you feel accomplished and boost your mood quickly.
- Reach out to an old friend. Talking with an old friend can bring back positive memories. Get in touch with a friend online or over the phone.
- Catch up with them and talk about your past. Relive some of the memories you had together.
- Cross something off your to-do list. A long to-do list can feel intimidating and weigh you down. Try to cross off at least one thing on the list and be proud of what you’ve done.
- Start by picking the easiest and fastest task on the list. Finish it quickly.
- Then, cross off the task with a bold marker or pen. This physical act can help boost your mood.
- Watch a comedy. Do you have a favorite funny movie that always makes you feel better? Consider having a comedy night at home. Turn on your favorite movie or TV show and relax. Turn it into a real movie night with fresh popcorn and dimmed lights.
- Spend time with pets. Research studies have shown that simply petting a cat can calm you down and make you feel better.
- Take your dog for a walk at a local park or around the neighborhood.
- Spend time cuddling with your cat and rubbing its stomach.
- Talk to your pets and forget your troubles.
- Get out your pet’s’ favorite toys and play together.
- Change your diet. Sometimes small changes in the diet can have a big impact on your mood.
- Talk to your doctor and get tested for nutritional deficiencies. Find out if you need to take supplements such as calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, folate, chromium, or vitamin D. They can all influence your mood.
- Eat some carbohydrates or chocolate (in moderation, of course).
- Whole foods such as vegetables and fruit can also help your brain.
- Eat more fish. Salmon, sardines, tuna and other types of fish can improve your mood. Research studies show that they have omega-3s that affect the brain. They increase the levels of chemicals that make you feel happy.
- Drinking more tea is also linked to a better mood. Black, green, and other varieties of tea have been connected to happier moods. They can also help you focus and feel more alert.