Whether you’re feeling sad, upset, stressed or just tired, there are multiple things that you can do to instantly boost your mood. To help inspire you, we’ve rounded up 16 ideas that can be done in as little as 5-10 minutes — from doing a 3-step skincare routine to petting a dog — that will have you feeling better in no time.
Go for a walk.
If you sit at a desk all day, then getting your blood flowing with a quick walk will boost your mood instantly. You can go for a walk inside if the weather is inclement, but going outside will have added benefits for your mood and health.
Get outside for some sun.
Even if you don’t feel up to going for a walk, getting outside will still make you feel better. We need a little sun exposure everyday to make enough vitamin D, which has a big effect on our mood (just don’t forget to put on your anti-aging sunscreen to protect against sunburn). Being around plants will also make you feel better since they release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide.
Do some stretches or yoga.
Another great way to get your blood flowing is to do some stretches or even a yoga routine if you are feeling up to it. This gentle exercise is suitable for everyone of almost all fitness levels and will get your blood flowing without breaking a sweat.
Take a soothing bath or shower.
One of the best ways to relax at home is to take a bath if you have a tub, or take a shower if you don’t. Really enhance the experience by lighting some candles, playing your favorite music and using scented products like body wash and bubble bath.
Have a spa session.
Once you’re finished with your soothing bath, it’s time to break out your skincare travel kit for a self-care spa session. Exfoliate your face, do a mask, moisturize your skin and perform whatever other steps make you feel calm and pampered.
Give yourself a massage.
Visiting a professional masseuse will definitely make you feel better, but not everyone has the money or the time for that. If you want to feel better right now, then give yourself after taking a hot bath or shower when your muscles are more relaxed. Rubbing lotion or oil onto your skin beforehand will reduce friction and moisturize your body in the process.
Listen to your favorite music.
Music has a strong effect on our emotions, which is why listening to a certain song can make you want to laugh — or cry. If you need a pick-me-up, hit pause on the sad indie songs playlist and instead cue up some positive, upbeat tunes that make you feel empowered.
Pet an animal.
Cuddling with an animal is an instant mood booster, and many pets love to be touched anyways. If you have a pet, take a few minutes to rub on them and tell them you love them. If you don’t, offer to pet sit for a friend or meet them at the dog park so you can get in some quality time with a furry friend as well.
Laugh at something.
Senses of humor are very personal and individual, but laughter’s mood-boosting benefits are universal. Cue up a funny clip from your favorite tv show or comedy special if you need a laugh, and you’ll be feeling better in no time.
Take advantage of aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy refers to the practice of using fragrances for both mental and physical health benefits. This can take many forms, including lighting a candle, plugging in a diffuser and dabbing essential oils onto your skin.
Try meditation.
Meditation can help you calm down and clear your mind when you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. If you are new to meditation, we recommend doing a guided meditation first to help you stay on track and centered.
Take a nap.
Sleep is crucial for our well-being, which is why a nap can make you feel instantly better — if you time it right. The key is that you can’t nap too late in the day, or it will throw off your regular sleep schedule and ultimately make you more cranky.
Clean up some clutter.
While this might seem more practical than some other ideas on this list, having a messy living space can contribute to stress, and you’ll feel better if you clean it up. If you have a few spare minutes, then pick an area of your home or apartment to clutter bust and see how much you can get done.
Wear your favorite outfit.
If you feel good about yourself, then you’ll feel good, period. If you need an instant pick-me-up, then choose one of your favorite outfits and throw it on. Even if you’re a little overdressed, your confidence will carry you throughout the day.
Do something nice for someone else.
Making someone else feel better can be a great cure for your own blues. And it doesn’t have to be a major commitment, either: You can bring a cup of coffee to your work spouse or get your partner some flowers on the way home.
Journal in your diary.
Whether you do it daily or sporadically, journaling can help you process your feelings, give you a chance to get things off your chest and, ultimately, leave you feeling better. For extra benefits, put away your phone and computer and do your writing the old-fashioned way, with a paper and pen, to give your eyes a break from screens.
We hope this list gave you some inspiration for quick mood boosters. What are your other favorite things to do when you need a quick pick-me-up? Let us know in the comments below!
