12 Ways to Boost Your Mood Right Now

POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Feeling blah? There are so many quick fixes for a not-so-awesome mood . . . and many of them take mere moments and minimal effort. Though we think exercise might be the best way to cure a bad day, we've got plenty more tips for your mental health (tasty food included).

Eat Mood-Boosting Food
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Eat Mood-Boosting Food

Did you know certain foods can boost your mood, alleviate anxiety, and combat stress? Try foods that are rich in B12 vitamins or omega-3 fatty acids (we love salmon for its mood-improving properties!).

Take a Bath
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

Take a Bath

Soothe sore muscles, take time to unwind, and unplug. This relaxing practice is even better when you use calming essential oils like lavender, jasmine, and eucalyptus (or even energizing citrus!). Don't have time for a bath? Use a diffuser in your home to get the aromatherapy.

Try a Natural Healing Practice
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Try a Natural Healing Practice

Do some meditation to find a place of calm. If you're ready to get a treatment done, try reiki, acupuncture, or even a massage to help improve circulation, energy flow, and happiness.

Go Outside
POPSUGAR Photography | Kat Borchart

Go Outside

There have been so many studies pointing toward nature's positive effect on our happiness levels and reduced stress. Whether you're forest bathing in the woods or earthing in your backyard, getting outside for some fresh air does a body and brain good.

Drink Some Golden Milk
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Drink Some Golden Milk

Fun fact: turmeric and golden milk have been known to be natural antidepressants. Give your mood a much-needed boost with a spicy sweet turmeric latte.

Gratitude Journal
POPSUGAR Photography | Mark Popovich

Gratitude Journal

Take a few moments to reflect on your life's greatest blessings. Gratitude journaling has been scientifically proven to manage stress and improve feelings of contentment.

Exercise
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Exercise

Sweat it out. The rush of endorphins will be an instant burst of happiness. Try a stress-reducing workout, go for a depression-fighting run, or dance to a silly song by The Fitness Marshall.

Socialize
POPSUGAR Photography | Rima Brindamour

Socialize

Never underestimate the power of some girl time or quality time with your family and friends. Social interaction can do wonders for a blah mood.

Declutter
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

Declutter

Believe it or not, clutter and mess can have a hugely negative impact on your mood and can even drain you of your energy. Clean up and start feeling better instantly.

Get Some Rest
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

Get Some Rest

Your bad mood might exist simply because you're tired. If you've exhausted yourself, don't feel bad about taking a nap, going to bed a little earlier, or sleeping in to catch up on some much-needed rest.

Hydrate
POPSUGAR Photography | Kat Borchart

Hydrate

Bad moods can also come from dehydration. If drinking water is a struggle for you, use hydration hacks to keep the H2O flowing all day long — you'll feel so much better for it.