5 Ways to Brighten Your Day

Waking up with the blues is normal from time to time. Whether you're just in a bad mood, or struggling with a mild depression, feeling down can strain your daily life, tasks, and relationships. Below are a handful of tips that may help lift your spirits in a pinch.

Take a song or dance break. If you like to sing or dance, put on a tune you can't resist and have at it. Not much of a singer or dancer? Just playing an upbeat rhythm can help.

Watch a feel-good flick. We all have a guilty pleasure film that always brings a smile. Allow yourself to clear time to watch it, solo or with a pal.

Get outside. A dose of nature often brightens the spirit, if only for the splash of vitamin D. Take your pups for a hike, go for a walk or simply enjoy coffee or tea alfresco.

Write down what you're grateful for. Try focusing on the things in your life you are grateful for, like relationships, career, loved ones, or health. Simply writing these things down can bring feelings of peace and gratitude.

Phone a friend. Sometimes the blues can stem from feeling disconnected. Call up your funniest or most sympathetic pal and catch up. Or, try phoning a loved one you haven't spoken to in a while.