8 Ways to Instantly Boost Your Mood with Self-Care

The new year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh with a new set of ideas, intentions, and goals. It’s also a chance for you to practice self-care and start on the right foot. Of course, there will always be tough days, but when those times come, it’s helpful to have some self-care habits up your sleeve to bring yourself up. Whether you’re looking for a mini pick-me-up or activities to drive away negative vibes, here are 8 ways to instantly boost your mood with self-care:

Journal/Express your thoughts

One of the best ways to overcome stressors is by acknowledging them. You can do this by journaling, venting to a friend, crying, getting creative, playing music, or yelling into a pillow. Writing is an especially powerful tool that helps you transport negative thoughts out of your mind and onto paper. However, if journaling isn’t for you, feel free to express your emotions in a more natural way! Anything is better than sweeping your feelings under the rug. Once you’ve taken the time to express yourself, you can move on to another comforting, self-care activity.

Listen to music

You can improve your mood by listening to upbeat and fun playlists. Whether you love metal or pop, nothing beats blasting your favorite songs. Just pop your headphones in and allow yourself to get lost in the world of sound. You can listen to your playlist while engaging in relaxing activities like exercising, yoga, or cleaning. Because who says you have to sit still?

Light a candle

Smells have a way of turning a sour mood into a cozy and uplifted mood. So before you go chill on the couch, pick out your favorite candle and light it. Transform your space from frazzled to instantly relaxed. With so many wonderful smells out there, you’ll find the perfect candle for you.

Pet an animal

There’s something about petting an animal that immediately takes all the bad vibes away. If you’re searching for an activity that’ll release stressors, spend time with an animal. Don’t own a pet? See if you can visit a friend or family’s pet for the ultimate mood booster.

Spend time outside

We all need a little sunshine and fresh air from time to time. If you’ve been stuck inside for far too long, take a break and go outside for a change. Spending time in nature is a great way to disconnect from work, social media, and any headaches tied to your home. Even a 5-minute walk around the neighborhood is enough to give you the boost you need.

Clean or redecorate your space

Ever get tired of the same old same old? It can be exhausting and unmotivating to see the same four walls every day. One way you can boost your mood is by transforming your space. Don’t be afraid to switch things up! Whether you vacuum your room, move your furniture around, or decorate your wall with new prints, you will feel immediately refreshed and rejuvenated.

Cook or bake

There’s nothing like eating delicious food to improve your temperament. While ordering to-go is always a treat, there’s something extra special about taking time to cook your own meal. Treat yourself by getting creative in the kitchen and if cooking isn’t your thing, aim for an easy recipe. Not only will you feel proud of yourself, but you get a tasty meal out of it.

Watch videos

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! We all have our go-to shows that we love to binge-watch, so why not watch our favorite shows and allow all the bad feelings to melt away. Whether you’re watching your favorite YouTubers or Netflix show, watching something that you enjoy is immediately a mood enhancer. Pick out your favorite genre and allow yourself to soak in the little moments.

As we jump into the new year, finding activities that bring us joy is the best way to improve and maintain happiness in our lives. Of course, expect the unexpected, allow yourself to feel any emotions that come up, and take advantage of some of these self-care tips to boost your mood.

So, now passing the question off to you! What are your go-to activities to improve your mood? Let me know in the comments below.

Good luck on your journey,

Harumi