Mood Boosters: Little Shelters in the Storm
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Everyone experiences bothersome moods, daily anxieties, and common stress related to work, relationships, etc. It’s completely normal! But that doesn’t mean you should settle for feeling low. It is essential to take the time to nurture yourself and find little ways to lift the mood. Below is a compilation of mood boosters that help keep your inner spark alive despite whatever storm life throws at you.
- Aromatherapy
First up in the list of mood boosters is aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can help your body and mind to relax. Using essential oils can help you instantly uplift your mood and feel more relaxed. You can use aromatherapy in a variety of ways – go to a spa, lit up a scented candle or even just a few drops on your pillow at night. Plant based scents like rosemary, lavender and jasmine have been known to have positive effects on mood. You can also look up ‘aromatherapy recipes’ to make your own concoctions and customize your experiences.
- Meditation
Stress can have major effects on overall well being, including your mental health. To counter this, try out meditation. Dedicating time to meditate daily helps clear the mind from outside worries and the mental clutter. It helps you focus on the present and put things in perspective. You’ll also be able to connect with your inner thoughts and feelings.
A few basics for effective meditation include:
- Finding a comfortable place to sit.
- Closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths.
- Focusing on your breathing and nothing else.
- Accepting yourself and having patience.
- Not giving up even if your mind will drift off.
- Physical Activity
Burn off that stress and get moving! Exercise is a natural mood booster as it helps release endorphins that make you feel good. Besides the endorphin rush, it also helps put things in perspective and helps you focus more clearly. And it doesn’t even have to be a full workout! Little everyday activities like exercising for at least 20 minutes a day, going for a short walk, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a bicycle ride, pushing through your yoga flow etc. can clear your mind and make the day brighter.
- Music
Music is a great form of escapism and inner therapy. It helps us express ourselves and make us more aware of our feelings. No matter what kind of music you’re listening to – mellow, soulful, upbeat or energetic – it will always help lift the mood and make you feel more positive. You can even look up curated playlists according to mood or create your own. Don’t forget to add some personal favorites to the mix and make it one-of-a-kind!
5.Organization
Take a break and spend some time in putting things where they belong. You can start with organizing your home or workspace. Messy surroundings can increase the mental strain so it’s best to stick with a neat and organized space. This strategy is scientifically proven and creates a sense of comfort which helps to manage overwhelming emotions and improve focus
6.Alone Time
Go for solo adventures! A change of scenery can do wonders for boosting mood, especially if it’s somewhere you’ve never been before. There is nothing like going off and exploring by yourself. Plus you’ll get to understand yourself better and identify areas of improvement along the way. Find a quiet spot to sit for some alone time and just enjoy the beauty of nature, watching the sun setting and simply be in the moment. Recharge and treat yourself like royalty!
- Social Interaction
Another great way to feel better is to truly connect with people. Make some time and have a long chat with your family and friends. Reach out to acquaintances or even strangers if you’re looking to expand your social circle. Even basic things like sending a card or messages to your loved ones can sometimes be enough to build strong relationships.
- Writing
Writing about your worries and struggles is a great form of emotional release and means to bring out your darkest thoughts. Keeping a daily journal or diary can be very therapeutic in genuinely processing and understanding yourself better. If you don’t feel comfortable with words and thoughts, then drawing and coloring can help too. You can even go the creative route with sculptures and art!
9.Nature
Whenever the going gets tough, the tough get outdoors. Spending time in nature is a great mood booster and can help you keep your spirits high even during difficult times. Being amongst the trees, birds and plants, gives you a sense of peace and oneness with the environment. Breathe in the fresh, oxygen-filled air and take time out to appreciate the beauty that Mother Nature provides us.
- Self Care
It’s easy to put yourself last, but by taking some time each day to nurture yourself, you’ll be surprised how instantly your mood can be lifted. Dedicate a few minutes, or even a few hours for self-care rituals and activities. Fill your day with things that bring joy; eat your favorite comfort food, catch up on some reading, get a good night’s sleep, take a hot bath or listen to soft music. Do whatever you need to de-stress and feel better.
By making use of these tricks, you’ll be able to keep up with the stressful times and show life who’s boss. Mood swings happen, and it’s important to recognize that and accept it. Pause and take time to claim back the balance in your life and remember that this too shall pass.
