The past 18 months have been hard on everyone. Studies show that some people are finding it more difficult than others to shake off feelings of sadness and loneliness. Mental health professionals offer seven proven ways to help you beat the blahs and the blues:
- Give Yourself a Pat on the Back – At least once every day, look in the mirror and give yourself a compliment; “I nailed that work report…I made a great dinner…My hair looks really good today.” Just as kind words can boost a friend’s feelings, so can recognizing your own accomplishments help boost your self-esteem.
- Have a Solo Dance Party – Studies show that dancing can boost feelings of happiness. Put on your favorite music and dance to your heart’s content.
- Enjoy Your Pets – Spending extra time with your pets will make you feel happier, according to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, and up to 71% happier, according to pet owners surveyed. Give your pet an extra snuggle and see if it doesn’t up your happiness quotient.
- Get in Some Exercise – Countless studies show that exercise can boost happiness. Just 20 to 30 minutes of exercise releases endorphins, making you feel more positive. It also releases serotonin and dopamine, two feel-good chemicals that can hang around long after a workout.
- Keep a Journal – Set aside 5-10 minutes each day to write in a journal and let your feelings flow. Journaling can reduce depression, anxiety and stress because it helps you recognize and deal with your emotions. It may also help you focus on the creativity and beauty in your life, which in turn increases happiness.
- Get Your Om On – Download a meditation app and devote 10 minutes a day to meditating. A study by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health found that after only four days of mindful meditation, the cortisol levels that leads to stress, anxiety and mood swings are often significantly decreased.
- Plan Something Fun – Where will your next vacation be? No matter how far away it may be, researchers have documented that the biggest boost of happiness comes just from planning the trip.
