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
Did you know certain foods can boost your mood [2], 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
Soothe sore muscles, take time to unwind, and unplug. This relaxing practice is even better when you use calming essential oils [3] 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
Do some meditation to find a place of calm. If you're ready to get a treatment done, try reiki [4], acupuncture, or even a massage to help improve circulation, energy flow, and happiness.
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 [5] in the woods or earthing [6] in your backyard, getting outside for some fresh air does a body and brain good.
Drink Some Golden Milk
Fun fact: turmeric and golden milk have been known to be natural antidepressants [7]. Give your mood a much-needed boost with a spicy sweet turmeric latte.
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 [8].
Listen to a Happy Playlist
Find a peppy playlist [9] full of happy songs that'll energize you [10], and put it on repeat.
Exercise
Sweat it out. The rush of endorphins will be an instant burst of happiness. Try a stress-reducing workout [11], go for a depression-fighting run [12], or dance to a silly song by The Fitness Marshall [13].
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
Believe it or not, clutter and mess [14] 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
Your bad mood might exist simply because you're tired. If you've exhausted yourself [15], 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 [16].
Hydrate
Bad moods can also come from dehydration [17]. If drinking water is a struggle for you, use hydration hacks [18] to keep the H2O flowing all day long — you'll feel so much better for it.