7 Mood Changing Habits to Start Now

Published on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 by Deanna Salles-Freeman

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Your mood is a crucial aspect of your life. 

It can affect your behavior, productivity, and overall well-being. In your daily life, you come across various situations that can trigger a range of emotions. While some may be positive, others can be negative. However, there are certain habits that you can cultivate to help maintain a positive mood and keep you feeling those good vibes, therefore reducing stress and anxiety.

7 Habits to Start Now

If you want to make a significant impact on your mental health, you need to create habits that move you in the direction of the good vibes you want. Here are seven positive mood-changing habits that can help boost your mood:

Talk about your blessing more than you talk about your problems.

~unknown

1. Spending Time Outdoors

Spending time in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improve overall well-being. Even a short walk in the park or spending time in your backyard can have a positive impact on your mood. 

2. Socializing with Friends and Family

Connecting with friends and family can have a significant impact on our mood. Research has shown that socializing with loved ones can increase feelings of happiness and reduce feelings of loneliness. Additionally, socializing can help us build a support system that can be beneficial during challenging times. 

3. Practicing Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing our thoughts and feelings. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improve overall well-being. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, breathing exercises, or simply focusing on the present moment.

4. Regular Exercise

Exercise is not only essential for our physical health but also plays a crucial role in our mental health. Regular exercise has been linked to a decrease in anxiety and depression, as it releases endorphins in our body, which can boost our mood. Additionally, exercise helps in reducing stress and improving sleep quality, both of which can have a positive impact on our mood.

5. Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential for our mental health. Lack of sleep can lead to a range of negative emotions, including irritability, anxiety, and depression. Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining a positive mood. Experts recommend getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. 

6. Listening to Music

Music has a powerful effect on our emotions. I recently attended an outdoor Jazz Fest and was reminded how much goodness it is – listening to music and soaking up the sun. Studies have shown that listening to music can improve our mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, music can help us relax and reduce stress levels.

7. Practicing Gratitude

Focusing on the things we are grateful for can help shift our attention from negative thoughts to positive ones. Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can improve our mood, increase positive emotions, and reduce symptoms of depression. Practicing gratitude can be as simple as writing down three things you are thankful for at the end of each day.

Simple Yet Powerful

In conclusion, incorporating these positive mood-changing habits into your daily life can have a significant impact on your mental health and well-being. By prioritizing exercise, gratitude, spending time outdoors, socializing, mindfulness, listening to music, and getting enough sleep, you can reduce stress and create a more positive life for yourself. These habits are simple yet powerful tools that can help you maintain a positive mood, even during challenging times. 

 

I see you, and YOU are beautiful!

 

1. _{Harvard Health Publishing. (2020, July 7). Exercising to relax. Harvard Health; Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax}
2. _{Niazi, A. K., & Niazi, S. K. (2011). Mindfulness-based stress reduction: A non-pharmacological approach for chronic illnesses. North American Journal of Medical Sciences, 3(1), 20. https://doi.org/10.4297/najms.2011.320}
3. _{Sansone, R. A., & Sansone, L. A. (2010). Gratitude and well being: the benefits of appreciation. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 7(11), 18–22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3010965}

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