Give these tips a try to change your mood for the better

Feeling happier can have amazing benefits in various aspects of your life, from having a more positive outlook on life to improving your relationships and connections with loved ones and friends. This feeling could also increase productivity and creativity. Positive emotions could also improve your sleep quality. However, in this hectic day and age, it can be easy to forget to stop and find joy and fulfilment that can improve your mood and make you feel happier. Here are some science-backed strategies to help you feel happier you can try today.

Take time to meditate

Sometimes you need a quiet place and a little time to reset to improve your mood and feel happier. Meditation can be a great way to get a little closer to happiness. Best of all, you can do it anywhere and at any time. Participants in one study reported that they had become happier after meditating for approximately one hour a day, six days a week, in eight weeks. Take some time in your day, especially when it is very busy, to meditate. You can do it on your own or try a guided meditation to help you get into the flow. With regular practice, you may just start to see your state of mind shift into a positive one.

Move your body

It has been proven time and time again that exercise can improve one’s state of mind and offer a range of positive physical benefits. Take that first step towards a healthier and happier you by moving your body. Start by taking a stroll in the park or your neighbourhood. You can even try jogging if you like. If you prefer to stay indoors, do an at-home workout. It is all about getting those happy hormones flowing through your system to give your mood and overall well-being a boost. Exercise isn't just about physical fitness, it is also a powerful tool for mental health.

Consume the right food

Research has found what we eat could have an impact on our mood. Consuming healthy foods like fruit and veggies can give your mental and physical health a boost. When you feel like you need to do something to change your mood and feel better, snack on a fresh and healthy piece of fruit, an apple or berries. Add a good amount of vegetables to your diet too. You can even try foods found in a Mediterranean-style diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and nuts

Tackle your to-do list

There tends to be a real sense of accomplishment when you start crossing things off your to-do list. This is because a neurotransmitter called Dopamine can make us feel happier. This neurotransmitter is also responsible for feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction, which is what gets released when we complete our tasks. Increased productivity in a healthy way can release those good feelings and make you feel a little happier.

Listen to something upbeat

Research has found that upbeat music can have a very positive effect on our well-being. Participants of the study were able to increase their positive mood as long as the music they listened to was happy and upbeat. Listening to music during exercise has also been found to help to release endorphins to increase your endurance. Being happy and upbeat could do your mind and body more good than you realize, resulting in a positive change in mood. Get lost in the sounds of upbeat music the next time you could use an extra dose of happiness.