With everything going on it is important to maintain healthy and positive mental health. We all have days when we're out of sorts. You just wish you were in a better mood. 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 simple and easy actions we can take so that we can recover our positive mental attitude or PMA as I like to call it. So here are some simple ways to lift your mood. Hopefully, you will find them useful.
- Go for a walk.
It is important to go out and get fresh air as long as you are keeping safe and practicing proper social distancing (remaining 6 ft apart) 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. Going for a walk can help clear your head and uplift your mood.
- Listen to quality music.
Listening to positive and uplifting music can shift a listener's state within moments. Its effect can be nearly magical. You can tune in your radio to something you've never listened to before or play your favorite songs on repeat.
- Open yourself to discovering something new.
Read something different than what you would normally. There are many different types of books that you can get nowadays. Visit your local library or maybe pick up that book you’ve been wanting to read but haven’t had the time to before. You may discover something wonderful. Right now many online programs are offering discounted or free courses, take advantage of them.
- 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.
- 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. Take note of how pleasant you feel afterward.
- 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. Whenever you get some pens, pencils, crayons or whatever you have and just draw for the fun of it. If you are not too keen on drawing you can color. There are plenty of those adult coloring books available to color in. Notice how your state of mind shifts.
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.