Fortnightly Focus – Improving Low Mood
Feeling low is a part of all our lives at some stage. Everyone feels upset, sad or disheartened from time to time, but for some of us it can be a real problem. The good news is that there are things you can do to improve your mood.
5 simple ways to improve low mood. Here are five evidence-based tips to boost your mood.
1. Practise gratitude
Try making a list of things and people you’re grateful for, big or small, and try to do this regularly. You could write a letter of gratitude to someone, or just ring someone and tell them how much they mean to you.
2. Listen to music
Instrumental music may help reduce pain and anxiety, lower blood pressure and reduce the stress of isolation. Your favourite songs can motivate you to get up and move, which can itself boost your energy and mood.
3. Use your hands
Using your hands for activities that don’t require much focus helps your brain relax. Using your hands to achieve specific tasks can bring joy. Both are linked to improved mood, reduced feelings of irritability, apathy, and depression. Try doodling, colouring in, or peeling vegetables!!
4. Chat to someone
Connecting with people can help bring you out of yourself and lift your mood. Social interaction can even boost your life expectancy. So, get chatting, join a club, or seek out a group of people with similar interests.
5. Breathe
Breathing deeply can help reduce stress and feel more in control. Box breathing is one of many breath techniques you could try. Breathe in while you mentally count to four, hold your breath for a count of four, exhale to the count of four, then hold your breath to the count of four. Repeat for five minutes.