11 Little Things You Can Do To Boost Your Mood

1. Gravitate towards natural sunlight

In moderation, sunlight has many benefits like improved sleep, lower blood pressure, and positive impact on your mood. [1] On days you find yourself cooped up at home, open your windows for natural light. If at work, try taking a little walk to a window or a well-lit open space.

2. Tidy up your environment

 A little cleaning can help you feel more liberated and accomplished. Dedicate time to accomplish just one cleaning job. For example, try clearing the clutter off all your counters at home, or simply making your bed.

3. Listen to music

Music has many benefits, it can be therapeutic, lower stress, help you focus, and more. [2] If you’re really in a funk, try listening to upbeat and cheerful music. If trying to relax, sleep, or focus, try listening to classical music. [3]

4. Download a calming app

There are plenty of apps that can be used to divert your attention elsewhere. For both IOS and Android phones, try the app “AntiStress” for relaxing games.  For mediation or relaxing sounds, try popular apps like “Aura” or “Calm”.

5. Watch or listen to something connected to pleasant memory

Sometimes mentally going back to a happy place can help you cope in the present. If you would rather not go down memory lane, watch a lineup of your favorite comedic movies, T.V. shows, or YouTube videos that destined to make you laugh.

6. Vent your feelings to a loving friend

It’s important to have people around you who build you up, rather than tear you down. Make a quick video or phone call to express your feelings to a someone who can sprinkle words of encouragement to you.

7. Take a pause in nature

If able, try taking a pause in a natural environment, especially one of “spatial openness, the presence of pattern or structure, and water features”. [4]   A psycho-evolutionary theory suggests that “these characteristics triggers positive emotional reactions related to safety and survival”. [4]

8. Try the HealthNet Self-love challenge

As we get older, we realize the importance of taking care of ourselves. Try our fun HealthNet challenge with two weeks of fun creative things you can do each day to improve your mental, emotional, and physical health.

9. Create a plan of action

In times of extreme stress try to quickly write down a plan of action. Instead of a making a simple to-do list, try breaking tasks into steps that are manageable. Creating action plans are beneficial in that it helps “strengthen your self-esteem and self-confidence as you work on the plan.” [5]

10. Take a dance break

Don’t ever be afraid to bust a move, because “dance improves your heart health, overall muscle strength, balance and coordination, and reduces depression.” [6] Try following along to a dance tutorial or teaching yourself the latest dance craze. If at work close your office doors or find a secluded area to let loose for a few minutes.

11. Add Brazil Nuts to your diet

There are many power foods that can benefit your mental health. Brazil nuts are one of these foods! While you may not instantly feel better, Brazil nuts are a good source of the mineral Selenium, which is proven to help fight against anxiety and depression. [7]