5 quick ways to cheer yourself up
We all have days when we just don’t feel on top of our game. You might get some bad news, lose your favourite sunglasses, or just feel downright grumpy for no particular reason.
Sadly most of us don’t have the means (or time) to take an island holiday or go and get a massage when we are having a bad day.
So if you want to get rid of your funk and feel happier, try some of our tried and tested tips below.
1. Breathe
Calm yourself down, reduce your blood pressure, and even release endorphins simply by stopping to breathe deeply. Close your eyes and breathe in while counting to five, and then breathe out counting to five.
It can really help calm down a racing mind or help you put things in perspective when you get wound up.
2. Scribble
Doing some drawing (or furious scribbling depending on how bad your mood is) can really help to relieve stress.
The best part is you can do this anywhere, anytime, if you just keep a small notepad with you.
3. Sing
When you sing, you take in oxygen and release endorphins, which can help put you in a better mood. Singing also helps to boost circulation and decrease anxiety.
So keep your favourite power ballad CD in the car and burst into song whenever you need a lift.
4. Laugh
Having a laugh can really help keep your mind off whatever is bothering you. It helps you to relax and can even lower the stress hormone cortisol.
Why not save a couple of funny online videos on your computer to watch when you need a giggle. Or phone a friend who makes you laugh and have a good catch up.
5. Jump
So this is why kids love trampolines so much! Jumping can reduce stress as it gets your blood pumping in the same way as exercising. You can do it anywhere and you can feel the benefit pretty quickly.
Jumping encourages the body to release serotonin, which can help calm your nerves and make you feel happier.
What do you do when you need a pick me up? We’d love to hear your ideas in the comments section below.
Related links:
Overcoming pain using the power of the mind
The 4 tricks guaranteed to make you a morning person
5 extraordinarily simple ways to be happy