10 Small Yet Powerful Ways to Pull Yourself Out of the Blahs

The quickest mood lifter is sunshine. Getting out to enjoy a little sun (or simply letting the sunshine in through a window) will increase the levels of vitamin D to boost your mood. Studies have shown that people who get more light exposure have less depression and increased alertness and productivity.

Pro-Tip: Let the sunlight stream in when you first wake up to help start the day on a happier, more positive note!

Music therapists report that singing boosts your mood and studies have shown singing also enhances immunity by increasing antibodies that fight sickness.

Fun-Tip: Sing in the shower. Not only will your mood get a welcome boost from unleashing your inner diva, the spray of water will help sooth you physically from the day's stress.

According to some studies, you will immediately feel a positive shift by listening to music that lifts your spirit and frees your mind. So turn it up.

A hearty laugh can instantly elevate your mood, reduce blood pressure and pain, decrease stress hormones, and boost immunity. So when you're feeling overly stressed or down in the dumps, surround yourself with the funniest, silliest people and let the healing begin!

If you don't have any funny peeps around, don’t fret! Watching funny videos on YouTube, comedy movies, or browsing through hilarious websites is just as effective. (It's also been reported that there's no significant difference between real and "faked" laughter. Try it!)

Hugs are known to release endorphins, a chemical that helps you feel excitement or satisfaction. A big warm hug from a friend, loved one, or even your pet is one of the best ways to lift your mood.

If you're alone, give yourself a big, bear hug! Studies show that wrapping your arms around yourself can help you feel safe, secure and loved.

Regardless of religion, prayer satisfies a basic need to feel that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves, which helps in reducing stress.

If prayer isn't for you, try meditation. Research shows that regular mindfulness exercises can change brain structure to promote a sense of well-being.

Either way, set aside some time for prayer or meditation to literally lift your spirit!

Physical activities such as jogging, aerobics, inline skating, and hula hooping release feel-good chemicals such as dopamine and is as beneficial as taking anti-depressants for mild depression. Even a simple brisk walk while getting some fresh air outside will help.

Fun-Tip #1: Dance. That's right. Shake what your mama gave you! Dancing combines two mood lifters: music and physical activity. So the next time you're feeling blue, turn up your favorite tunes and drop it like it's hot.

Fun-Tip #2: Swing! This childhood fun is not only exhilarating, it can boost your mood as you enjoy the outdoors.

Deep, focused breathing will help you become more grounded, bring you back to the present moment, and lower your stress level. It'll instantly improve your mood!

Start by exhaling completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound. Hold your breath for a count of seven. Exhale completely through your mouth, again making a whoosh sound to a count of eight. Repeat the cycle three more times for a total of four breaths.

Pro-Tip: Putting your hands over your heart while deep breathing can activate the release of oxytocin, the brain’s hormone of safety, bonding, calm and connected. Try it!

Repetitive actions such as chopping and peeling helps clear your head and reduce stress. So chop those carrots and peel a bag of potatoes to achieve a happier, more relaxed you!

This is one of my favorite tricks to clear my head, and luckily, my son loves his veggies! (Maybe because I've been constantly chopping since he was a baby lol)

Resting is a mood lifter and helps maintain our positive energy. Even a quick 20 minute power nap can do wonders for your mood.