In a bad mood? While it can be tempting to turn to booze, caffeine, sugar or cigarettes when in a gloomy mood, there are some natural attitude adjusters that may work a treat.
Here are 5 natural mood boosters to try:
1. Walk your way to a better mood
Numerous studies show that a simple walk can lift our mood, health and wellbeing almost immediately. Going for a stroll clears the mind – and the act of being in the world and surrounded by nature puts things in perspective.
So the next time you fancy throwing the phone at the wall or feel your heart racing, pop on a pair of walking shoes and hit the footpath. Then walk until you feel relaxed and feel your frustrations subside.
2. Let the sunshine in
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient (and hormone) that helps manage our moods. And research says that a lack of vitamin D is a major contributor to depression. On top of that, a vitamin D deficiency can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a mood disorder that arises during the darkest months of the year.
But alarmingly, around 1 billion people around the world have a vitamin D deficiency. So how can you ensure you're getting enough vitamin D for optimal health and wellbeing? You could take supplements, or simply step out into the sun for 15 minutes a day. This is especially important on overcast, cloudy and dark days when we need to soak in as much vitamin D as we can.
3. Feelin' fishy
Another quick fix for a gloomy mood is fish. Oily fish, in fact. Salmon and tuna contain delicious doses of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce symptoms of depression and sadness when eaten on a regular basis.
Plus, oily fish is high in protein. So before reaching for the sweets to get an unhealthy high, try a meal with fish first and see how you feel.
4. Show gratitude
Every day, think of at least one thing you're thankful for. It could be a compliment from a stranger, your family, a pet, or the ability to walk and run and jump. When we show gratitude for the small simple things in life, we stop looking at what we're lacking and start appreciating what we have.
And interestingly, most people find that the things they're most grateful for have nothing to do with money!
You might like to involve the whole family, each sharing your daily gratitude list before digging in to dinner.
5. Take time out for you
In the midst of mayhem, the last thing you have time to do is look after yourself right? Nope. Prioritising "me time" is essential to being more productive, boosting your mood and putting you in a positive frame of mind. It doesn't have to be a two-hour spa treatment; something as simple as stopping to sip a cup of tea without distraction, reading two pages of a new book, or doing a 5-minute meditation, can all work wonders. Try to schedule this time into your daily routine, so it becomes a habit and a priority.
Originally published on Jul 01, 2015
