Feeling down? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will discuss seven mood boosters that don’t cost a thing! Whether you are feeling stressed out, anxious, or depressed, these mood boosters can help improve your mood and make you feel more positive. So read on and start feeling better today!
#1 – Take a Walk in the Park
A short wander through the nearest park, or any other green space, can do a lot to bust a low mood. According to a study conducted by the University of Essex, just five minutes of walking in nature can significantly improve your mood and mental well-being.
If it’s the midafternoon slump or a long night leaving you a little gloomy, a brisk 10-minute walk can increase blood flow to your brain and energize you, easing feelings of fatigue and sluggishness.
#2 – Laugh It Off
Laughter really is the best medicine. It’s a great way to distract yourself from whatever might be stressing you out and it can boost your mood and energy levels.
Even if you don’t feel like laughing, faking it until you make it can still improve your mood. A good laugh releases endorphins, which can help reduce pain and stress.
So, the next time you’re feeling down, try watching a funny TV show or movie, reading a humorous book, or even just hanging out with friends who make you laugh.
#3 – Try Some Aromatherapy
Certain scents can have a calming and mood-boosting effect. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils to improve your physical and mental well-being.
Inhaling certain scents can help you relax, ease anxiety, and boost your mood. You can use an aromatherapy diffuser with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or ylang-ylang.
You can also try adding a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath or using it in a homemade body scrub.
#4 – Give Yourself a Hug
Yes, seriously! Research has shown that hugging yourself can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
It’s completely natural to turn to the people in your life for physical and emotional support when dealing with a low mood and other frustrations. However, you should also show yourself some love.
Maybe you suddenly start to feel sad, overwhelmed, or just plain rotten at work, or in a crowd of people you don’t know. A supportive embrace seems like exactly what you need to turn your mood around, but there’s no one around to do the honors — no one other than you, that is.
#5 – Turn Up the Tunes
Listening to music can quickly change your mood for the better, no matter what you’re feeling. It has an instant and powerful effect on our brain chemistry.
When the song changes over, your ears perk up as you recognize the first notes of one of your favorite songs. You start to feel a smile spreading across your face, and you can’t help but tap your foot along to the beat.
You may even start singing along as you feel your mood lighten and your worries start to fade away.
#6 – Try a Random Act of Kindness
Doing something nice for someone else is a surefire way to boost your own mood.
It doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive — even the smallest act of kindness can make someone’s day (and yours).
Doing something nice for another person could make their day a little better and bring a smile to their face, potentially improving your mood, in turn.
#7 – Call a Loved One
Hearing the voice of a loved one can instantly boost your mood and make you feel connected and loved.
Whether you chat for five minutes or an hour, taking the time to connect with someone you care about is always worth it.
Loved ones can:
- Listen as you vent your frustrations
- Offer encouraging words
- Make you laugh
- Remind you that you always have their support
Conclusion
While we can’t always afford to buy the things that will make us happy, there are plenty of mood boosters that don’t cost a thing. From spending time with friends and family to getting outside in nature, these activities have been scientifically proven to increase happiness levels.
So, next time you need an instant pick-me-up, try one of these free mood boosters instead of reaching for another cup of coffee or hitting the shopping mall. What do you like to do when you need an instant mood boost?
