We all get down in the dumps from time to time – it’s only natural, and there are a million things daily that can throw your mood off. Sometimes, a particular event results in you just really needing to take some time and embrace the blues.

And that’s okay.

But when you feel like you’re in a slump for too long or for no particular reason at all, the real challenge is to will yourself to get out of it. If you feel like you’ve been affected by a persistently low mood that seems difficult to get out of, you’re definitely not alone. This also stands for being unable to shake off an event or a person’s behavior that you really don’t want to give any importance to.

The good news is that the power to boost our mood really lies within us, and there are some unexpected or maybe even silly things that can help us reignite that lovely spark inside.

Color

The psychology of color is fascinating and its power has been proven time and time again through design, media, and the studious use of color in marketing and branding. Counter your mood with bright colors or those that remind you of positive things - such as green for tranquillity, yellow for sunshine, or baby blue as a contrast to the grey skies above.

It might sound weird, but there is something empowering about consciously fighting the bad mood with bright colors on or around you. Personally, I like to paint my nails with orange nail polish when I feel low, and it just gives me optimism.

Try it, and the next time the weather gets too depressing, ditch the black and greys, put on your brightest clothes and head out.

Posture

Your brain affects your body, and vice versa. So, while slouching often comes as a consequence of low self-esteem and a bad mood, not slouching can also contribute to higher energy levels and improved mood – studies have proven this.

Chin up, straighten your back and take a deep, long breath. Proper posture is a matter of mindfulness and exercised habit that will positively contribute to your overall mood.

Caring for plants

A previous blog post talked about the serenity and peace that this fruitful hobby offers. Gardening is a great way to connect with nature and get exercise, so it’s no wonder more and more people are turning to it in their quest for relief from stress and anxiety.

It’s a luxury for those of us with no space, but even caring for one single plant, watering and repotting it can give you a feeling of joy and fulfilment (mine is a Dracaena, and she has a name). If you have a front lawn, no matter what size, don’t turn on the sprinklers – invest in water hoses and just enjoy in the tranquillity of the moment.

The thing about gardening or caring for plants that gives us ultimate joy is not just the meditative process itself, but the feeling of pride and accomplishment every time you look at them.

Certain foods

If you often feel low on energy (and mood) you might be suffering from nutrient deficiency. This is especially common during the winter, when there is less fresh produce available. Take care of your internal health by eating more probiotics – yogurt, tempeh, sauerkraut and sour pickles.

Foods that are rich in vitamin B are beneficial to mental health and many of them, such as fish and eggs are also great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health.

Take care of your diet and drink plenty of water as a first step to achieving that mind-body balance.

Less social media

This one might come as no surprise at all. Social media can be a great thing if you use it sparingly. But it can be very easy to lose control and depend on “likes” for superficial happiness, or find yourself scrolling almost involuntarily, feeling like everybody has a more fulfilling life than you.

More than a year ago, I decided to deactivate my Facebook account just for two weeks as an experiment, to see how I’ll be spending my time without it, because I felt the mindless scrolling got too far. Well, those two weeks have passed and I still haven’t activated it – I didn’t feel the need to.

I found myself reading, sketching or just staring out the window with my morning coffee. Social media is not the devil, however; it’s just important to find that balance and make it useful.

I use social media now for sharing hilarious things with my friends, being inspired by beautiful images and of course, watching videos of puppies (so.much.fluffiness).

Lastly, I want to share this short film with you, which sends a great message about the importance of playfulness, something adults often forget. Be playful and embrace some silliness in your life! Stretch, exercise and get your heart pumping, and dance even if you think you’re the clumsiest dancer of all…especially then.

Crank up the music and break into a dance, the sillier the better, have a good-natured laugh at yourself and the circumstances you’re in.

About Nina Simons
Nina is a lifestyle blogger, yoga aficionado and a travel enthusiast with a distinctive taste for home decor. She's passionate about learning new things and sharing meaningful ideas. In her free time, she loves to design clothes and furniture. If you wanna see what she's up to you can find her on https://twitter.com/NinArtSimons