Ways to Boost your Mood!

I, like so many others in this world struggle with these times we are living in, and I have found some tried and true methods to improve my mood/mental status. These may or may not work for you, but they have been extremely beneficial to me.

1. Go Outside: Sunlight definitely improves mood and Vitamin D levels to help fight depression. If you live in a place that there is not a lot of sun or are unable to get outside, buy a light box. My mom's doctor that comes to our house to take care of her has suggested that to my mom with good results. She is bed bound so is not able to go outside.

2. When you feel down, the first thing you automatically tend to do is isolate. I recommend, to do the exact opposite. I have been taking care of mom for several years now and not able to go out and socialize much at all. My new part time job has been my savings grace. I talk to people on the phone from all over the country and I am happier and more fulfilled than I have been in some time. I have made some terrific friendships that will last through my lifetime, and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything.

3. Stay hydrated: When dehydrated you can become fatigued. Fatigue can often mimic the symptoms of depression. It's important to make sure you are drinking enough.

4. Drink Green Tea- caffeine can lead to a high followed by a crash, however the caffeine in green tea works along with L-theanine to prevent the caffeine crash while still lifting your mood a bit. It will boost dopamine levels that will also help you feel better.

5. Eat regularly- Stable blood sugar levels help you maintain a stable mood, don't skip meals if at all possible. Low blood sugar often comes with feeling of depression. Try for a high protein diet, especially foods with omega 3 fatty acids and foods with healthy fats like coconut oil, flaxseed oil, and eggs.

6. Get some exercise- it helps because when your heart rate increases, it releases endorphins that help to improve your mood.

7. Try some supplements- The new one I'm on is fantastic, reach out if you want information on that one. (It's not sold in Big Box stores so no sense in even giving you the name) I have also had St Johns Wort work well. Just make sure you have investigated the supplier and that they are not using any harmful fillers.

8. Try some dark chocolate- it's packed with fiber, iron, magnesium and antioxidants. It's known to have positive effects on mood and mental health.

9. Magnesium supplement- it will help you feel calm and poised for whatever the day throws at you. It reduces stress and increases calmness. Again, be sure that the magnesium you purchase isn't filled with harmful fillers. I have tried several before choosing the one I'm currently using, which is leaps and bounds above the others. I have a great source for that one as well if at all interested. Amazingly this supplement has also improved my ability to get a good sleep. I was struggling with hot flashes (no more discussion on that needed), tossing and turning and just general inability to sleep. Now, I feel so much more refreshed each day and I'm ready to face the day. Novel experience for me!

10. Smile more- Low mood really makes you NOT want to smile but truly do it anyway. Even a fake smile can help change chemistry in your brain and get good chemicals flowing. Or take a page from my book and take it a step further, some days I stand in front of a mirror and make ridiculous faces at myself. LOL. That too works. Try it. I dare ya. I walk away smiling. No one has caught me yet. SCORE!!!