It’s the middle of the day but it’s dark outside. Rain is beating against the window and the wind is blowing gale force. With days like this, it is easy to feel a little down-in-the-dumps and less than cheery. Unless you are a lover of bad weather, this could be the time when you need to find easy ways to improve your mood. You may feel glum now but it doesn’t have to be that way!
Here is our take on 5 easy ways of regaining that feel-good factor:
1. Move into the light – do you have a place that is well-lit and full of light, despite the weather? If so, move into it. Lack of sunlight creates SAD syndrome (seasonal affective disorder) which is a type of depression. This is because of the serotonin levels in the brain drop. Often referred to as the ‘happy chemical’, serotonin provides a natural feeling of happiness and wellbeing. Too little of it and we begin to feel our mood dropping. Just 15 minutes of sun will do the trick. If this is not possible, think about getting a natural light therapy box.
2. Eat something yummy – think wholesome comfort food, rich in omega 3, iron, B vitamins and magnesium. These all have a tendency to improve our mood. Cutting back on carbs at this time of year can make you feel tired and snappy as carbohydrates also produce serotonin. Foods don’t have to be high fat or sugar, just nutrient-rich. Something like a wholesome winter stew or casserole, full of lean meat, beans, whole grains and served with leafy greens is perfect.
3. Go for a walk – despite the weather, get outside. No matter how glum it is outdoors, some gentle exercise in the fresh air always helps. Wrap up warm, pull on a hat and scarf and enjoy the elements! As the body is exercised, endorphins are released. Natural feel-good chemicals, they will help your mood to improve. If walking isn’t your thing, a bike ride or run will soon have a smile on your face.
4. Make your surroundings beautiful – if you don’t have soft cushions, candles or cuddly throws surrounding you, then add them. You will find a fantastic array of candles here with an assortment of wonderful mood-lifting aromas. Research shows that there is a direct connection between the environment and our mood. Scents, in particular, have a magical way of transporting us to pleasurable places, feeling happy and relaxed.
5. Cuddle your pet – there is no better way of experiencing unconditional love than from our pets. Always happy, ready to play and affectionate, research shows that spending time with your pet can help eradicate negative thoughts and boost feelings of happiness. Just stroking your pet will lower blood pressure, having a calming effect. If you don’t have a pet, visit a friend that does, help out at a local animal shelter or try a dog sharing service such as https://www.borrowmydoggy.com/
Improving your mood isn’t so difficult once you know-how. It definitely takes more work in the dark winter days but by taking a positive attitude and being grateful for what you have, that glum feeling will soon disappear.
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