5 Ways to Boost Your Mood Instantly

These are just my personal recommendations and they always work for me! I hope these are helpful and as usual, would love to hear your feedback for what works best for you.

1. GET OUTSIDE

   Sunlight and fresh air in general can do wonders for your spirit. Even when the sun isn't out, it can be so therapeutic to spend a few moments outside simply observing. Put your phone down. Take some deep breaths and just SEE. It can be really helpful for me when I'm feeling overwhelmed or anxious to get outside and be reminded of the the vastness of this beautiful world. Realizing that there is so much more outside of my self and my own current stressors. I often wonder what it might be like to be a bird or a tree, still a living being but without any knowledge of the world or what goes on in it, just simply exisiting. You don't have to be running or hiking or even walking to take advantage of the outdoors. It's free and always available to us.

2. CALL A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE

   Not only is it nice to check in on your friends and family once in awhile, but it can be a great way to take your mind off things for a bit and hopefully make you smile. I know when I talk to my friends on the phone, there is a 90% chance that at some point, I am going to be laughing so hard it hurts.

3. GET MOVING

   This doesnt always mean you HAVE to go to the gym or a workout class or even on a run ( I mean, if you can then hell yes!) but this could simply be taking a walk around the neighborhood, playing with the dog or dancing to your favorite song. Movement releases endoprhins as we know, which direclty effect your mood - in a good way :)

4. PRACTICE GRATITUDE

I KNOW, I KNOW. You know this. But I'd be willing to bet more than half of you reading this rarely, if ever, actually write down what youre grateful for on a regular basis. This is a proven way to boost your mood and happiness over time. Start with 3 things or go crazy with it and add everything you can think of. Sometimes I even add things as small as my toothbrush; although it's an everyday item for us, its a luxury some folks don't have.

5. EAT SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

   The sight of beautiful, bright fruits and veggies instantly makes me happier. Prep some however you like and sit down without distractions to enjoy. Bonus points if you sit outside without your phone!

   Pineapple sprinkled with tajin, cucumbers and italian dressing, tomatoes with mozzarella & balsamic are some of my faves!