If you’re looking for simple ways to raise your happiness level, try one of my quick mood boosters to help you feel more positive—right now.
I often find myself running around trying to balance my busy schedule. I’ve realized that sometimes I need to take a time out to boost my mood and recharge my energy level. If you’re like me, you’ve been in a situation where a busy lifestyle gets the best of you. Next time your demanding schedule has you stressed out and desperate for a break, give one of my eight instant mood boosters a try. You’ll discover how the simple things in life can truly have a positive impact on your day.
8 Mood Boosters to Lift You Up
1. Practice belly breathing
Practice conscious breathing by inhaling through your nose, letting the air expand into your tummy, then breathing out through your mouth. Whether you’re at work or running around on a busy day, taking a break for 5-10 conscious breaths can calm your mind while giving you a rejuvenating timeout.
2. Schedule a stretching break
Instead of taking a coffee break, try taking a stretching break. You can do simple neck rolls and arm stretches from the comfort of your office chair, as you stand on the phone, or wherever you are! Simple movement throughout the day can refresh your mind and relieve muscle tension.
3. Get organized wherever you are
Stress can be self-inflicted, sometimes caused by misplacing or losing your belongings. Boosting your mood starts with relieving your stress level. Carve out some time in your schedule to get organized—whether you’re at home, at work or in the car. Just a few minutes to get things in order each day can lead to a better mood over all.
4. Try coordination drills
Improved health involves your body and your brain. Doing exercises that involve working your upper body and lower body at the same time, such as lunges with a shoulder press, will speed up your workout and give your brain power a boost! Next time you work out, try a few moves that challenge your coordination.
5. Smile often
Your body releases endorphins every time you smile, even if you’re faking it! Spend time every day consciously smiling at people. It will instantly boost your mood and give your face muscles a workout. The added bonus is that your smile may improve the mood of other people, too, because they’ll probably smile back at you!
6. Take a power walk
You may think that a two-minute walk can’t possibly impact your mood or your health. But a fast paced walk, even if it’s just for a few minutes, can improve your cardiovascular health. If you only have a few minutes, make time for a quick, brisk walk. By doing something different (and stepping outside if you can), you may be able to reduce stress. Try to accumulate at least 30 minutes of walking throughout the day. If you have time for a longer walk, try one of my power walk routines.
7. Do a workout for your skin
Quality skin care products can positively impact your appearance, thereby improving your mood. Give yourself a two-minute mini-facial at home by exfoliating with your favorite scrub and massaging moisturizing cream onto your face. When you dedicate a little extra time to your appearance, it can help you feel confident—and I believe that a little face massage with the correct products is the easiest workout ever!
8. Try a quick interval routine
Try an interval workout using some old school moves: complete 30 seconds of four simple exercises. You will give your energy level a boost by releasing endorphins into your blood stream, no matter the length of your workout. Here’s a simple interval routine to try:
- Jumping jacks (30 seconds)
- Squats (30 seconds)
- Push-ups (30 seconds)
- Crunches (30 seconds)
***
We live in a fast-paced world that can feel stressful at times. Once you become overwhelmed with stress, it can start interfering with other areas of your life and can have a negative impact on your health. Many times, we take care of others around us and put our own needs last on the list. This is especially true if you have a family to look after.
It’s important to take good care of your mental and physical well-being. Though it can be a struggle to find balance in life, I hope my eight fitness mood boosters help make you feel great.
By Samantha Clayton, AFAA, ISSA – Vice President, Worldwide Sports Performance and Fitness