Instant Mood Boosts

By Rebecca Speechley

Health

28 September 2011 16:05

If you’re feeling down try one of these instant pick me ups.

 

Middle aged women are more likely to experience the blues than any other group according to the experts. If you are feeling down there is no reason why you have to stay that ways. Try a few of these simple ways to brighten up your life.

Be green

Spend time outside connecting with nature by walking in your local wood, gardening, or simply sitting in the park. Research carried out by mental health charity Mind shows that being close to nature can be as effective as prescription drugs in treating low mood.

Take some friendly bugs

Try taking a probiotic supplement – US scientists found that friendly bacteria helped to lower levels of the stress-induced hormone, corticosterone and reduce anxiety. The scientists are quite sure how they work, but there seems to be a link between your gut and your brain chemistry. So the healthier your gut, the healthier your brain.

Get moving

You might not feel like getting off the sofa, but a brisk walk could make you feel a whole lot better. Scientists believe that regular exercise could be an effective treatment for the blues. Exercise releases endorphins – feel good hormones – which are thought to help lift your mood.

Play your favourite tunes

Music has the power to lower your blood pressure, ease stress and boost your happiness. All you need is 20 minutes a day to listen to songs that make you happy. Dance and sing along to it and you’ll get a double happiness hit.

Lose weight

If you have a few pounds to lose making the effort to get rid of them could make you feel brighter. Scientists found that people who take part in a weight loss programmes based on a healthy diet and regular exercise plan with plenty of support lost weight and felt happier. Get the benefits at our friendly diet club www.yoursdietclub.co.uk.