Staying optimistic for some days can seem like an uphill battle, so what can make you feel better?
It’s no wonder that bad moods can often come our way. A bad mood can be caused by anything, from guilt for forgetting someone’s birthday, for not getting what you wanted, to unhappy things going on around you. Furthermore, according to a psychology study published in ABC News, while part of our personal happiness is pre-determined by genetics and circumstances, research shows that it is possible to control up to 40% through daily thoughts and actions.
This means that there are certainly some things we can take initiative to do when we start to feel ourselves down. If you’re looking for ways to turn a bad mood around, here are 7 ways to improve your mood in less than ten minutes.
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* Listen to upbeat music.
The study’s author, Yuna Ferguson, notes that it’s important not to think too much while listening to music and instead just allow yourself to enjoy the experience. So don’t be afraid to enjoy music when you’re feeling down.
* Get a good laugh.
According to an article in Prevention, a study conducted by Stanford University has shown that laughter increases dopamine in our brains, a chemical that improves mood. And according to the Mayo Clinic, laughter also increases the amount of oxygen reaching the brain and calms our stress response system, providing a positive, comforting feeling. So the next time you’re in a bad mood, try to find some comedy show or a joke to lighten the mood.
* Walk around the neighborhood.
“Studies show that people exposed to more light during the day have fewer sleep problems and less depression, and evidence suggests that light,” says Daniel Kripke, PhD, at the University of California. Morning can help you stay awake and productive.” Additionally, Dr. Jack Raglin, mental health and exercise expert, says, “Gentle exercise, which is about 40% of your maximum heart rate, can also elevate your mood.” and instead, you should do activities that suit your mood instead of trying to force yourself to do things you don’t like.
* Clean up living space.
If the place you are in is in clutter, it can cause subconscious chaos and reduce your ability to focus. Clutter also limits your ability to process information, causing stress to pile up. So cleaning house, bedroom can help you to clear your mind. You will feel more comfortable and enjoy life or at least have more space for you to breathe and relax.
* Give someone a hug.
“When you stimulate the pressure receptors in the skin, you reduce stress hormones,” said Tiffany Field, study leader at the University of Miami’s Touch Institute, in an article in the journal Psychology Today. And touching others also stimulates oxytocin, which also has a positive effect on our mood. Field also recommends massaging your forehead, hands, and neck yourself, as self-massage has been shown to lower heart rate and reduce stress.
* Think good things.
In another article in Psychology Today, physician and health expert Susan Bialicho says to reflect on three things that are going well or three positive moments in your day, and even jot them down in a journal. your mind. According to Biali, reliving these moments will help bring about a better mood and emotions.
* Allow yourself to be told.
Psychologist Dr. Leon F. Seltzer says there are actually some benefits to taking things out with a friend. In many cases (though not all), it’s better to let your negative emotions out than to keep them inside. Talking to your best friend or lover about the negative things happening in your life is a good way to feel lighter and maybe you will find advice for your troubles.
There’s no reason why a bad mood should ruin your day. And if you notice your bad moods last longer than usual, or you just can’t seem to shake them, don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional for help.