7 Ways to Boost Your Mood
It is important to maintain a positive mood because, with a positive mood you can ward off mental illnesses like depression, dementia and the like. It also reduces the risk to health such as; increasing blood pressure which can result in Hypertension, Stroke etc.
- A positive mood is extremely crucial because it does the following; It Strengthens Relationships: When a person has a positive mood/disposition it often reflects in the relationships they have with their family, friends, and colleagues. There is this famous line that says that you can’t give out what you do not have. Simply put, if you don’t have joy, happiness or an all-round positive attitude. You cannot express that to people around you. Sharing positive emotions is essential for strengthening a relationship. Hence the need to have a positive disposition.
- It Improves Mental Health: Having a positive attitude/mood improves your mental health. When you are happy the brain releases Dopamine and Serotonin chemicals into the central nervous system, which help to reduce depression, anxiety and stress, and improve your mental health and overall well-being.
We will critically analyse some natural mood-boosting strategies such as; Some of these are scientifically proven ways can boost our moods naturally making us feel happier and more upbeat.
1) Exercise: Cliche but true, Exercise has been scientifically proven to be a natural mood booster. By exercising you are bound to release Endorphins, which are neurochemicals in the brain and are released when the body feels pain or stress. When you exercise you release these hormones ultimately reducing stress and pain and boosting your overall sense of well-being. We must incorporate exercise into our daily routine, you could join a gym membership or at-home workout in the early hours of the day.
2) Nutrient-rich diet for Brain Health: Eating a balanced diet is good for brain nourishment and health. Incorporating fruits, vegetables and other nutrient-based diets helps to protect the brain from oxidative stress (the waste produced when the body uses oxygen) which damages the brain cells. It improves the performance of the brain and also helps with memory and alertness. Specific foods to include for brain optimal function are as follows:
- Whole Grains; The Nutrients in whole grains supply a good amount of energy to the body, which regulates moods and also improves memory and learning. Examples of these whole grains are; Brown Rice, Millet, Oats, and Quinoa.
- Lean Proteins: They also help with memory, learning and overall brain health, good sources of lean protein are; meat, fish, chicken, salmon, greek yoghurt, and nuts.
- Fruits: Apples, Avocado, Banana, Carrots.
3) Quality Sleep: A person who has not had quality sleep tends to feel tired and irritable which results in a gloomy mood, to boost your mood ensure you have quality sleep. Your body is working to support healthy brain function and maintain your physical health while you sleep, which ultimately boosts your mood. When we are well rested, we are more energised, productive and concentrate better. To sleep better you have to create a sleep schedule such as;
- Try going to bed and waking up at times which allows you to rest for about 7 to 8 hours each night.
- Turn off electronic devices before going to bed
- Minimise Noise
- Get the best mattress and pillows for much better comfort
4) Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Mindfulness is a practice of awareness and being in the present. Some mindfulness include; deep breathing and meditation. Meditation helps to better the immune system and also helps reduce stress and relaxes the body and mind which can improve one’s mood.
5) Social Connection and Community: Being socially connected to positive friends and family, will surely boost your mood. When you are around them, there are fun interactions, laughs and jokes, encouragement, and nice compliments. All these make you happier and healthier. You can foster social connections in the following ways;
- Regular contact: keeping contact with people in your circle either; friends, family or support group.
- Mutual Support: As they support you through your tough times, you also try to support them as well. This fosters social connectedness.
- Quality time: Spend quality time with friends, family or support group.
6) Nature and Sunlight Exposure: It is a known fact that Nature has been linked with the improvement of mood. Being outdoors certainly improves one’s mood, by reducing stress, and anxiety and increases the feeling of calmness. Sunlight is extremely helpful because it regulates the circadian rhythm known as the body’s internal clock. Early morning sun exposure increases alertness, lessens stress and overall improves your mood.
7) Pursuing Enjoyable Activities: Doing our hobbies and interests is one sure way to boost your mood, doing what you enjoy best creates happiness and relaxation. It could be painting, gardening, or hiking. When you are not feeling so great it is good to partake in activities that you derive joy from. They are good mood boosters.
Conclusion
Here is a quick recap on natural mood-boosting strategies such as Exercise, Eating a Nutrient-Rich diet, Exercise, Mindfulness, Social Connection, Nature and sunlight and Enjoying Hobbies all these are easy fixes for a not-so-positive mood. Try to incorporate these habits to ensure a sound disposition.
Kindly share your experience and tips for improving your mood.
