Bad moods happen to the best of us. Sometimes it’s foreseeable and sometimes it hits us like frogs falling out of the sky, but whatever the catalyst, a two minute break is all you need to get your bad mood back to ‘feeling good’ status.
When errant emotions strike, these top two-minute mood boosters will get you out of your funk in no time:
Hug It Out: What do you do after a fight? Hug it out! Hugging lowers blood pressure, encourage positivity and releases the ‘feel-good’ hormone oxytocin. Lower feelings of stress and anxiety by locking yourself in a long embrace.
Breathe: When you’re anxious, angry or stressed, simply stand or sit still for 2 minutes and focus on your breathing. Doing this brings attention back to your inner core, allowing the chaos to quiet. Inhale deeply, hold for 5 seconds and release slowly. Deep breathing slows the parasympathetic nervous system and allows the mind to calm and focus. Once you are centered, go about your business with a fresh outlook of positivity and awareness.
Smile: Just the act of smiling can put you in a better mood. Instead of scowling at whatever internal or external angst you’re dealing with, force yourself to smile. It’s amazing how the simple act of smiling will actually lead to not only a rush of warmth, but quite often laughter as well. As they say: ‘Fake it till you make it.’
Step into the Light: Sunshine and Vitamin D are directly related physical AND mental health. Not only does vitamin D boost your immune system, it also improves brain function, helping you feel balanced and vibrant. Although 5 minutes of unfiltered sunlight is ideal, a quick 2 minute break to soak up the sun will also do your mind and body good.
Tune In: Though it’s wise to limit you time zoning out in front of the TV or wasting hours on the internet, a quick 2 minute break to watch your favorite funny YouTube video or a re-run of your favorite ‘Friends’ episode is sometimes all it takes perk you right back up. Do a quick Google search for laughing babies or cute animals to bolster your mood.
Jump Around: That’s right, get the blood flowing and shake it off when bad moods strike. As silly as it might sound, a 2 minute round of jumping jacks, high knees or wild dancing may be all you need to shake off irritability.
Laugh: One of the major benefits of laughing on a regular basis is the release of endorphins. Many people associate endorphins with intense physical activities, such as running, but a well-placed deep belly laugh provides the same mental and physical benefits.
In addition to experimenting with these top two-minute mood boosters, keep the frequency of bad moods at bay by implementing the following healthy living steps into your daily routine:
· Eat fresh, well-balanced meals. Sugar, processed foods, wheat, food dyes and preservatives all spike blood sugar and alter hormonal balance. Fill your daily plate with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains and lean, clean protein to help your mental and physical health thrive.
· Exercise! Get your sweat on and get those all-important endorphins rushing through your veins to keep your mind and emotions feeling fantastic.
· Omega 3: A daily fish oil or omega 3 fatty acid supplement is an excellent way to safeguard not only your health, but your mood as well.
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