Top Tips on How to Brighten Your Mood

We all have bad days. Days when nothing goes right, days when you feel the world is against you. Sometimes we might just be feeling low, tearful or lonely. 

Below are my suggestions of ways to lift and improve your mood for whenever you might need it. Some of these are personal favourites of mine and others are ideas I will be trying out myself then next time I feel out of sorts. 

Journal

There is a lot to be said about journaling. Sometimes it’s good to just write down on paper what has dampened your mood. Or you could write down a list of all the things that you are grateful for and happy for. Writing everything down can help give you clarity and focus.

Listen to Your Favourite Podcast

Have a podcast that you know will make you smile or even better, have you in fits of giggles? Stick your headphones in and get listening for that instant mood booster.

Spend Time With Your Pet

Pets bring great joy the majority of the time anyway but a quick cuddle or playing session can brighten up your mood. 

 Watch a Good Uplifting Movie

Sometimes we all just need to zone out, a great way to brighten your mood is to stick on that comforting film and relax for a while. 

Do Some Exercise

Great for getting the endorphins flowing. Whether it’s light yoga or a 5km run, getting moving is not only good for your health but will give you a high afterwards. Going outside for a walk in the fresh air can really make all the difference and help to clear our head and will also help gain your daily vitamin D needs. 

Read a Book

Nothing beats getting lost in a good book if reading is your thing. Sometimes a motivational self help or personal development book is just what you need whilst at other times an indulgent fiction novel is a best choice.

Sit and Have a Cup of Tea

A personal favourite of mine. Make a cup of tea or coffee of your choice, find a nice place to sit and just relax. Maybe have a biscuit or two. 

Spend Time With a Friend

Friends should be people who lift your spirits so meet up with someone you know will turn your frown upside down. If meeting in person is not possible (I write this at the beginning of Lockdown 3.0) then a face time session or a phone call can work just as well.

Do Something Productive

I personally feel a little brighter if I manage to accomplish a task. This could be anything that needs doing but I often find a good tidy up or sorting out a junk draw helps. 

Play your favorite music

Pop on your favorite uplifting tunes and maybe even get up and dance.

Have a Warm Bath

Run a warm bath, add in your favourite bubble bath, bath bomb or salts, light a candle or two and just lie back and relax for a bit. 

Give Yourself a Mini Makeover

A little change can make a big difference. Why not take some time out to play around with your cosmetics and watch some YouTube tutorials to try out a new look. Even just painting your nails can be a mood changer. 

Bake Something or Make Your Favourite Meal

The action of measuring, mixing, cooking and of course eating can be rather therapeutic and enjoyable. Whether it’s a sweet treat or a healthy meal, make sure it’s something you enjoy. 

Buy Yourself a Small Treat

A bunch of flowers or a new nail polish or lipstick can be a great little pick me up and not cost the earth. 

I hope you find these ideas helpful. What are your favourite ways to brighten up your mood? Do you have a go to pick me up?