Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.
Are you finding that lingering winter days are impacting your mood? 1 in 20 people have SAD in the UK, and men are more likely to be affected than women. But even if you don’t struggle with this seasonal condition, the long nights can really start to impact your mental health. But fear not, the lighter days are on their way, and by the end of April, the days will be longer, and the winter will be just a distant memory.
But in the meantime, these quick tips can help you to boost your mood and keep you going til the day when the sun sets past 6 pm, and we can all enjoy the lighter evenings.
Take a bath
Round up all of your favourite aromatherapy products, get your candles, relaxing books, podcasts, movies, and music, or even visit FruityKing to play some games of wind and so on and set up a sanctuary in your bathroom so you can relax and boost your mood. Why not add in some snacks and drinks, too? Pop that do not disturb sign on the door and take as long as you need (or the family will allow) to recharge the batteries. Plus, if you do this before bed, you can improve your chances of a good night’s sleep so you can wake up the next day refreshed and raring to go.
Smile
Not because someone tells you to, but because you want to. Smiling is one of the best ways to get a quick dopamine boost, and someone reciprocating that smile can improve your day and theirs. The reason being that mailing triggers mood-boosting hormones in the brain, so even if you don’t feel like smiling, try it and see if it helps you feel better.
Exercise or get moving more
The power of movement shouldn’t be underestimated. Even five minutes of movement that gets the blood pumping and the heart raised can instantly boost your mood. So whether you hit the gym, go for a run, turn the radio up and dance around in the kitchen, get moving to experience the mood-boosting properties movement can add to your life,
Get outdoors
If you can, head outside and go for a walk. Whether it’s walking to your local shops, along the coast, or your local park or green spaces, get outside and see the benefits of being outdoors. Not only will you get some exercise; walking is one of the best exercises you can do, but you will also get some fresh air and that all-important vitamin D.
Talk to someone
Who you talk to depends on the results you want to get from the conversation. If you want a quick pick me up, call that person who can always make you laugh regardless of what is going on; if you need to vent, then the person who always has an ear ready to listen and gives the best advice is a good call. However, talking to someone or anyone can be highly beneficial and help you to instantly feel better no matter the issue.
I hope this post has been helpful and has equipped you with some mood boosting tips.
Stay wonderful!
