Winter in Connecticut isn’t easy! It’s cold, the days are shorter, and the kids are stuck inside. But, there are easy ways to make your self feel instantly happier and more positive throughout the day!
These are a few suggestions from our parent site, The Local Moms Network!
Get Outside into the Morning Light
Dutch researchers found that blue or white light (similar to morning light) helped ease depression in test subjects. Try bundling up and taking the kids on a walk or heading out after you drop them at school. If your day is just too jam packed to get out, try light therapy. Essentially, you sit in front of a lamp that mimics sunlight and it boosts your mood!
Take a Stroll On a Tree Lined Street
Two birds, one stone? If you can take a morning walk (or walk during any time of day), take your walk along tree lined streets. This was found to reduce the need for antidepressants in city dwellers, according to German researchers. So if you’re taking the dog out or running an errand, take the route with the most greenery.
Pep Up with Peppermint
Dab on some peppermint oil or drink some peppermint tea and you could actually feel peppier. In a study published in Scientia Pharmaceutia, study authors found that peppermint, as well as orange and other uplifting scents, improved participants’ moods quickly.
Swipe On Some Lipstick
Got a Zoom call? Take a few extra seconds and do your favorite red lip or apply a rosy gloss. Researchers found that women who wore color on their lips not only felt happier, but also more competent.
Have a Dance Party
Swedish researchers found that dancing helped reduce depression and improve mood. Make your dance party a daily family tradition either when the kids get home from school or after dinner! It will get your whole family some exercise—and endorphins.
Organize Something
Cleaning your desk, organizing a junk drawer or even clearing off your computer desktop can help you feel in control, and as a result, happier, according to a study in Personality and Social Psychology.
Hug It Out
Studies show that oxytocin – aka the happy hormone — is boosted by hugging, and can even lower blood pressure. Twenty second hugs had the greatest effect, so grab your kids, partner, or even dog and cuddle up.
Turn Up the Tunes
Music–particularly upbeat music—has been shown to instantly make people happier. Researchers from the University of Missouri said the effects were immediate but could last weeks.
Help Someone Else
The research on volunteering your time or money, or giving money to someone in need, is clear—doing for others will give you the gift of a mood boost. Click here for a list of ways to give back locally!