Sometimes you can’t help feeling overwhelmed or down in the dumps. Let’s face it – life can get pretty crazy! Not everyone has time to go for a full meditation retreat, so here are a few simple things you can choose from to boost your mood today!
1. Get some Sun.
Take a short walk outside in the sunshine. Getting vitamin D can lighten your mood (no pun intended), improve your brain function, as well as your well-being! If you can’t get outside, stand by a window.
2. Smile.
Even if you’re feeling more like a frown, smiling can trick your brain into happiness! When you smile, dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin are released to make you genuinely happy. Did you know: Smiling is more rewarding to your mind than chocolate!
3. Aromatherapy.
Smell is one of the strongest senses. By simply smelling essential oils like lavender, lemon, or jasmine it can directly affect your body and your mood. 
4. Listen to upbeat music.
Researchers have found that upbeat songs helped mature listeners to feel less lonely, reminisce about happy times and relax. Put your favorite song on and dance like nobody’s watching.
5. Do a good deed.
When you perform an act of kindness it can boost your psychological health by releasing dopamine. This is the feel-good neurotransmitter in your brain, which will leave you in a more positive emotional state!
6. Eat or Drink.
Eat one of these foods for a mood boost: Coffee. Eggs. Spinach. Berries. Salmon. Oyster. Green Tea.
7. Track what has gone well today.
Write down a few things that have gone right today. This leads to more positive thinking for the rest of the day by showing yourself what went right and what you’ve accomplished well today! Plus, it’s always satisfying to check off a list.
8. Clear away clutter.
Clutter can cause anxiety, by visually reminding you of how much work you have to get done. If you don’t have time to put everything where it’s supposed to be, try arranging papers or tidying up your desk or room and make some space for mental clarity.
9. Breathe.
Taking slow, long, deep breaths will force oxygen to your cells, slow your heart rate down, improve circulation, and enhance your mood overall. Doing so will tell the nervous system that everything is “okay”.
10. Exercise.
One of the most effective ways to lift your mood is to get your heart pumping faster through physical activity. Working out relieves stress, improves memory, and helps you sleep better as well!
If you haven’t tried Pilates, try a Free Intro Class and de-stress while you work out! It’s low-impact and increases your mood. Stop by your local Club Pilates studio today.
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