4 Tips to Shake the Blues
By Stephen R. Farris
Feeling a little more depressed or down in the dumps these days? Maybe your boss wasn't pleased with your work performance, even though you thought you were doing well. Things on the home front might not be going so well, or listening to the news and all the negative things taking place in the world could be the reason for that funky feeling.
It's enough to make you want to run home, turn off all the lights, jump in bed and hide yourself under your comforter until all the things causing your depressed mood go away. However, there may be some things you can try instead to boost your mood.
Go for a Walk
Not only can walking be a good form of exercise, but it can also put you in a better mood, especially at your favorite park or lake. Studies show that just by being outdoors near nature can help boost your mood. Walking can also lower your stress levels, give you better focus, and a dose of sunshine never hurt anyone.
Laughing Is Good Medicine
When you're in a funky mood, laugh it off. Laughter is good medicine by reducing stress and/or any tension you might be feeling. You can watch funny videos on television or stream them on your smartphone or tablet. Animal videos always provide a good laugh, or share a joke with a friend. Chances are they'll share one back and you can both laugh, and laugh, and laugh!
Aromatherapy Can Boost Your Mood
If you prefer staying at home alone, then try a little aromatherapy to boost your mood. Smells speak directly to the amygdala, the part of your brain that aids in regulating your emotions. Maybe the smell of pumpkin spice, or freshly brewed coffee reminds you of a comforting time in life, which can put you in a better mood.
Music Can Do Wonders
When you're down, put the earbuds in and crank up your favorite tunes. Music is a great way to help relieve stress and the tension you might be feeling, or when something depressing happens in life. Music also helps with:
- Improving mood and emotion regulation abilities
- Reduces anxiety
- Promotes better brain health and memory recall
- Improves focus
What Else Can I Do?
Try a random act of kindness. You'll feel better and the person you helped will feel good as well. You can call a family member or a close friend to vent your feelings. The bottom line is that there's several options you can try to help break you out of feeling blue.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Layton, Utah.