All
of us have days when we're out of sorts. You just wish you were in a better
mood. You've had days like that, haven't
you? Perhaps you tried to get yourself into a better state of mind but
struggled to achieve it.
Sometimes
we get stuck in our own emotional dumps and forget how easy it is to feel
happier, so here are eight simple ways to lift your mood. Many people have
found them useful. Some of them may surprise you!
1. Go For A Walk
Most
people know that going for a short daily walk is one of the best forms of
exercise. When you are feeling down it is even more beneficial. If you can, go
into a natural environment with plants and birds. Can you think of such a
setting or not? What do you notice first? The different shades of greenery, the
fresh smell of country air, the sounds of birds, or the sunlight shining
through the trees? Make it real by taking a short stroll and really being in
the present.
2. Listen To Quality Music
Music
can shift a listener's state within moments. Its effect can be nearly magical.
Dig out that CD you haven't listened to in ages or tune in your radio to
something you've never listened to before.
3. Open Yourself To Discovering Something New
Read
something different than what you would normally. There are a ton of different
types of magazines can you get these days. Visit your local library or browse
through a magazine rack. Pick up or buy
a magazine you wouldn't normally buy. You may discover something wonderful.
4. Find Something To Laugh At
Laughter
is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. Find a humorous book, or watch a
comedy. Even better, try to learn a few
new jokes and tell them to others.
5. Simple Breathing Meditation
Breathing
meditation is a great exercise that you can do anywhere. Simply allow yourself to sit comfortably with
your back straight. Now close your eyes and become aware of the flow of air
into and out of your nostrils. That's all there is to it. Do this for 10-15
minutes. Notice how pleasantly surprised you can be at how you feel afterward.
6. Doodling For The Fun Of It.
Most
people can remember when they were young and used to doodle for hours. Kids
love drawing silly little pictures. Drawing is not just for kids or
artists. Whoever you are get some pens,
pencils, crayons or whatever you have and just draw for the fun of it. Notice
how your state of mind shifts.
7. Think Of Others Less Fortunate.
The
fact that you are reading this article suggests that you are probably much
better off than most people on this planet. At times this may be hard to
believe, but if you can read and have access to the internet, just those two
things alone means you are better off than most people in the world. There are many human beings that barely have
access to the basics of survival. There are people in lots of pain. Allow your
compassion for them to grow.
8. Lift Your Vibrations!
And
lastly, write down a list of at least 10 things that bring you loving joy. These
could include dancing, singing, being with your family, reading, travelling etc. Lift your vibrations up by focusing your attention on these and if you are
ready go and do one of these things!
These
are all pretty simple. There's nothing profound or life changing, but when all you
need is a quick pick me up these may be just the thing you need. Putting simple
ideas, methods, tools and techniques into action will help you achieve change
more quickly and easily --surprisingly so at time-- than you imagine.
