10 Ways to Boost Your Mood

Are you feeling cranky, glum, gloomy, or grouchy? I’m not talking about full-out depression here; I’m just talking about being a little “down in the dumps” as some call it. In other words, you are in a BAD MOOD. We all feel that way from time to time. It’s normal. The important thing is not to remain there or else it CAN lead to depression. In fact, it can lead to all sorts of serious health conditions, including an increased risk for heart attacks and strokes. So, what can you do to boost your mood when you are feeling a little blue? Here are ten things that can help:

1.  COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS. When you are feeling down and discouraged, take a moment to list at least 5 things you are grateful for, and keep going from there if you can. The more you think of, the more your perspective will begin to change.

2.  REST & RELAX. If you are stressed out and overworked, take time to rest, relax and do something you enjoy. We all need to rest to help us regain our strength. Even God rested. So, plan a weekend when you can get some extra sleep, get a massage, soak in a warm bath, listen to soothing music, go fishing, read a good book, paint, golf, write, bake, or do whatever it is that helps YOU to relax and clear your mind of your troubles.

3.  EXPLORE. Have some fun by finding a restaurant or coffee shop you haven’t been to yet or go on a spontaneous outing to someplace new. Go alone if you prefer or take a friend along with you.

4.  GET UP AND MOVE. Go to the gym, go for a walk, a run, a swim, a bike ride, a hike, or get up and dance to your favorite tunes. Do what you like to do that will get you up and get your blood circulating.

5.  DECLUTTER. Take some time to declutter your spaces. Clutter can be overwhelming and depressing. So, grab a bag and start throwing away the trash, then begin putting things back where they belong. You can do your entire house, one room, or even one drawer. Every little bit helps.

6.  ENCOURAGE OTHERS. Instead of focusing on your own troubles, start thinking about how you can encourage someone else. Ask God to show you who to be a blessing to and work towards making it happen.  

7.  FORGIVE. Be sure to check your heart for any unforgiveness. A bitter heart is a stealer of good attitudes.

8.  CALL A FRIEND or a family member and reminisce about the good old days. Smile and laugh as you remember the special times you have experienced and shared together.

9.  BE STILL in the presence of God. Pray and talk to Him about your thoughts and feelings. Ask Him to help you have a better attitude.

10.  ACCEPT GOD’S PLAN. Above all, accept that God has a plan for your life and, as the apostle Paul said in Philippians 4:11, learn to be content in whatever circumstances you are in.

Philippians 4:11b - . . . for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

REFERENCES:

Thesaurus.com – synonyms for “in a bad mood.”

Webmd.com – “How Does Mental Health Affect Physical Health”