Whether you’re having a rough day, or have been battling depression for some time, you can use these tips to start shifting your mood in a more positive direction.
Major League Mommy is an informational site and much of the information shared on this site is based on my personal experiences. The resources shared on this site are provided for informational purposes only and are not to be used as a replacement for a trained and professional medical/ mental health care professional.
Major League Mommy cannot be held responsible if you choose to use the information provided. Please always consult a trained mental health professional or physician before making any decision regarding treatment of yourself or others.
Drink Some Tea
One of my favorite teas to drink when I need a mood boost is Yogi Tea’s Sweet Tangerine Positive Energy Tea. It contains Assam Black Tea and Yerba Maté as well as a blend of delicious flavors that can definitely lift your spirits. You can add a little honey for some extra flavor. But this tea is so flavorful, I typically drink it without the honey.
Here are a few other teas that are great for boosting your mood.
Lemon Balm
Chamomile
Lavender
Peppermint
Ginseng
Green Tea
HIbiscus
Holy basil tea
Valerian root
Black tea
Pump Up the Music
Listening to music is one of my favorite things to do when I’m feeling a bit down. As a matter of fact, I have an entire Mood-Boosting Playlist I created on Apple Music that I put on whenever I need a lift in my mood. This particular playlist consists of songs that simply make me want to get up and dance.
Say “Thank You”
I say this all the time, but gratitude is truly a healer. Most of us have been taught to say “thank you” when we receive something we want. However, we should be giving gratitude for things we already have as well as those positive outcomes we wish to see.
Adopting a gratitude practice can quickly shift your perspective and lift your spirits. I spend some time writing out my list of things I am grateful for each morning. I even say thank you for various blessings as I am getting ready in the morning. As a matter of fact, I say “thank you” before I even get out of bed in the morning.
I truly believe that gratitude is one of the things that transformed my life for the better. It may sound super cliche, but focusing on the blessings in your life can really turn your whole world around.
BREATHE
As simple as it may sound, many of us forget to do it. Just BREATHE. Taking deeper breaths can calm your nervous system and clear your mind. Let your belly expand when you breathe. This is literally one of the quickest ways to calm your mind. You can try these breathing exercises to manage depression.
Write it Out
You have to find a healthy way to release the mind clutter. And for this reason, I highly recommend journaling. Journaling has literally saved my life during times when I was spiraling completely out of control.
Getting the extra junk out of my head and on paper gave me a better perspective and allowed me to think more clearly. You can get a journal or notebook and a pen for just a couple of dollars so this is a really cost-effective (yet powerful) step to take.
Watch Some Comedy
They say laughter is the best medicine, and I totally agree. A good laugh can give your mood a major boost. It literally has a healing effect. So when you need a good laugh, put on a good stand-up comedy special or sitcom.
Read a Good Book
Take a break from reality and dive into a good book. Even if you’re not interested in a good fictional story, consider reading a self-help book to fill your mind with some positivity and provide you with some tips to get you on the right track.
Enjoy a Massage
According to Phoenix Health and Wellbeing, “When you get that feeling of relaxation during a massage, your brain is releasing chemicals that cause you to feel happy, relaxed, and less stressed.” A good massage can also ease pain and other blockages that may be impacting your mood.
Getting a massage is a wonderful act of self-care and sometimes we just need a little extra TLC. Treat yourself.
Take a Shower or Bath
Speaking of self-care, a relaxing shower or bath is a great way to calm your nervous system. I like to add some lavender bubble bath and light a candle to create that spa-like atmosphere. It is super relaxing and instantly makes me feel so much better.
Sometimes, I decide instead to take a cold shower or bath to balance out my nervous system. I know that may sound a little crazy but you can learn more here about why this works.
Eat a Nutritious Meal
A nutritious meal can replenish key minerals in your body that you may be deficient in. It can also improve your mood if it’s pleasing to your taste buds. “Intentional eating” is what I call it. Work with your physician to determine whether you’re low on any key minerals and then modify your diet to give your body more of what it actually needs.
Briana Marie is a mental health and financial literacy advocate, and founder of Major League Mommy. In her spare time, Briana enjoys yoga, travel, and spending time with her Husband and two daughters.
