10 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Feel Happier

We all get down and blue from time to time, but feeling happy shouldn’t be so hard. It doesn’t require a million dollars, or a move to the Caribbean, or even a new car. All it takes is some self care and shifting your perspective to change how you feel.

Here are some surprisingly simple ways to rejuvenate your spirit, enhance positive mood and just feel better overall:

1. Take a deep breath.

We all know it’s important to breathe, but often we just forget to do it. Take a moment now to inhale deeply, then slowly exhale. Repeat five times. Doing so will bring more oxygen into the body and brain and make you feel calm, relaxed and more focused. It will also help your body relax after a stressful day at work or school.

2. Visualize your favorite place.

Think of the most relaxing place in the world to you. Maybe it’s a lush mountain range, or a beach on an island. Or maybe it’s just your bed with fresh sheets and soft blankets. Spend 10 minutes visualizing this place. Allow yourself to feel everything about it: the air, the sounds, even how your body feels as you move around. This can help lower stress levels as well as create a soothing and calming effect on your nervous system, preparing you for sleep or another relaxing activity later on in the day.

3. Take a walk outside.

Fresh air is essential to good health. Just ten minutes of walking outside can help improve your mood and creativity, as well as provide a natural energy boost. It can also help reduce stress related headaches, which means you’ll feel even better after a walk. Bring a friend to the park or just go for a stroll down the block. Taking in nature’s beauty will instantly lift your spirits.

4. Wear something new.

You don’t have to buy anything special it can be something that’s been hanging in your closet for ages or just something you decided to wear today because it makes you feel happy for example, this amazing pendant. Getting dressed can have a powerful impact on how you feel, so take some time putting together an outfit you love. If you’re having a bad day, it can make you feel instantly better to put on something that makes you smile.

5. Make someone else feel good.

Volunteering is one of the best ways to feel happier and more positive about yourself. Getting involved in a cause that means something to you whether it’s helping others or something more personal will enable your mind and body to relax, giving you the chance to create some happy memories. You’ll also feel great knowing that you made someone else’s day a little brighter.

6. Visit a place where you feel relaxed.

If you love the beach, consider going there at the end of the day to relax before heading home. A gorgeous waterfall, or even just a cool spot outdoors that can be easily accessed in your own neighborhood, like a park or old-fashioned ice cream shop whatever it is, make sure it has a happy vibe to it and feels relaxing as soon as you arrive. Come back every time you feel stressed, and this will become your happy place for whenever you need some downtime and rejuvenation.

7. Go for an outdoor run or walk anyway.

You don’t have to spend time working out to benefit yourself just doing something active and moving will do the trick. Take a brisk walk, or head over to the park if you see one nearby. This will give your body something to look forward to while also making you feel better when you’re done.

You can also try taking a run or jog around the block or just getting on your bike and riding down the street. Simply being outdoors in nature is a great thing, so use whatever activities are available in your area or set up an indoor playlist of jogging music to take advantage of this simple, but powerful practice.

8. Get some fresh air.

If you take advantage of the five above, this one should come naturally. Lately, I've been doing it a lot which means going on walks and taking just a few minutes to boot up my iPod, turn off all the lights and close the curtains. It's such a quick, easy thing I often forget to do at home after I come in but that usually ends up being the one thing I actually look forward to doing most when going home at night.

9. Dress for success.

A happy body is an energized body so wear something that makes you feel like your best self as you go out for the day. Even if you’re just working at home, try wearing a fun outfit. Wearing cozy and comfortable clothing can also make your body feel good. If you’re in the mood to splurge, try a new style of clothing or purchase something you’ve had your eye on for a while.

10. Dance around the house.

This one probably won't feel like exercise, but I'm still a believer. Just up your wardrobe to include sweaters and socks that make you feel cozy, and smear some Nivea Intensive Care on your face and body. Then dance around the house like you're on stage. It'll be fun, it'll be silly. Don't worry about how you look just concentrate on having fun as you move around. You can even add goggles to your ensemble if you'd like.

Conclusion

No matter how you decide to incorporate these tips into your daily routine, remember to remember that this is all about feeling great. Making positive changes in your life is a long-term goal, but enjoy the process along the way. You'll be able to see and feel the difference these tips make in weeks and months to come.