How to Boost Your Mood: Our Top Tips

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to get out of the habit of doing the small things that can make a significant difference in how we feel. Taking care of our mental health is important, and these small changes can make a big difference when it comes to lifting your mood.

Physical activity is an essential part of mental wellbeing. The release of endorphins, or “feel-good” hormones, during exercise naturally improves your mood. Consider incorporating activities that you enjoy and look forward to, such as:

• Dancing: Putting on some music you love, and dancing can make you feel happier.
• Yoga: Combining stretching, breathing exercises, and meditation calms your mind and improves both mental and physical wellbeing.
• Running: Going for a run is a simple but effective way to clear your mind and better your mood.
• A brisk walk: A brisk walk increases endorphins, reduces stress hormones, improves sleep, and enhances overall mental well-being, promoting a more positive mood.

Nature has the unique ability to positively impact our emotions. Spending time outside helps to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and induces feelings of peace and contentment. Try things like:

• Gardening: Spending time nurturing plants can be incredibly satisfying and rewarding.
• Again, walking: Simply being outdoors in nature can decrease the amount of stress hormones being produced.
• Outdoor Sports: There’re many outdoor sport options like cycling, hiking, or golfing. These offer both physical exercise and the calming effects of being outdoors.

Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools when it comes to managing stress and enhancing emotional health. They help bring your focus back to the present, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Practices include:

• Guided meditations: Use apps or online resources for guided sessions focusing on various aspects of mindfulness and stress reduction.
• Controlled breathing: Practicing controlled breathing exercises helps to calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
• Positive affirmations: Repeating empowering phrases to yourself can significantly enhance your mindset and emotional resilience amidst daily stresses.

Humans are social by nature, and meaningful connections are essential for our mental health. Positive relationships offer support and improve our mood. To make new social connections, try:

• Volunteering: Giving back to your community can provide a sense of purpose and connection and bring you into contact with all kinds of people.
• Join community groups: Join local groups or clubs that share your interests or hobbies to meet and spend time with similar people.
• Reach out: Sometimes, a simple conversation with a friend or family member can make a significant difference in how you both feel.

Sleep and how you feel are very closely linked. Lack of sleep can negatively affect your mood, while a good night’s sleep can improve your emotional resilience and help you think clearly. Strategies for better sleep include:

• Regular sleep schedule: Stick to a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends.
• Relaxation techniques: Do calming activities before bed, such as reading or taking a warm bath. Switch off from phones and screens before bed.
• Create the right environment: Make sure your bedroom is tailored to sleeping and has the right temperature and noise and light levels.

Happiness can often be found in the small, everyday moments – you just need to be looking for it. Going into each day with a grateful attitude and determination to find joy can help to lift your mood:

• Gratitude journaling: Reflecting on and writing down three things you’re grateful for each day helps you focus on the best parts of your day.
• Savour the moments: Where you can, take time to really enjoy your daily activities, whether that’s your morning coffee or listening to your favourite music.

Taking these steps can help you navigate towards a happier and healthier life, but if you need further help or advice on how to boost your mood, a Wellbeing Coordinator can direct you to activities, support groups and charities that can help, just contact your practice to get in touch.

If you have already been given a Crisis Line number from a health professional, call it.
If you’re under the care of a mental health team and have a specific care plan that states who to contact when you need urgent care, follow this plan.

You can call NHS 111 and select Option 2 if you or someone you know needs urgent mental health care, but it’s not life threatening.
Mental Health 111 (Option 2) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free to call from a mobile (even when the caller has no credit left) or from a landline.

You have an existing mental health problem, and your symptoms get worse
You experience a mental health problem for the first time
Someone has self-harmed, but it does not appear to be life threatening, or they’re talking about wanting to self-harm
A person shows signs of possible dementia
A person is experiencing domestic violence or physical, sexual or emotional abuse

Contact your practice today to get support, advice and guidance from an empathetic and confidential mental health professional or visit the Taff Ely Cluster.