6 WAYS TO BOOST mental Health

Sometimes, when a dark cloud descends on your day you need a quick fix to get your morale back on track.

Whether it’s road rage, work stress, an argument with a loved one, nerves ahead of a scary event or a sudden bout of sadness, when your mental health takes a turn for the worse it can be tempting to abandon all hope and declare your day ruined.

But, according to experts, by employing practical and psychological techniques you can reframe your thinking and turn that frown upside down.

Here’s how to mend your mood in 10 minutes or less…

1. Fight frustration with gratitude

“Next time you feel bored or frustrated at the mundane day-to-day, turn ‘I’ve got to’ into ‘I get to’,” says psychotherapist Anna Mathur.

For example, instead of thinking, ‘I’ve got to go to the gym’, turn that into ‘I get to go to the gym because I’m physically able’.

“This tweak not only welcomes a warm wave of joy-bringing gratitude, but draws your attention to the privileges you may often take for granted,” Mathur explains.

2. Find your courage

When nerves get the better of you, use a memory of a time you were brave.

“Every small act of courage, in any part of your life, can help develop your confidence.”

3. Ground yourself in reality

“When we spiral into anxious thinking, we’re very much in our heads, and a quick grounding exercise can help bring us back into our senses,” says Dr Elena Touroni.

“Stop what you’re doing and list five things you can hear, four things you can see, three things you can touch, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.”

4. Get a foot massage

“A foot massage can be a very quick way to boost your mood if you’re feeling low,” says Dr Paul Ettlinger.

“Grab a golf ball, tennis ball or even an orange and rub your foot over it.”

5. Reach out to a friend

We’ve all got the people we regularly turn to when we’re feeling low, but why not try reaching with someone you might have lost touch with? Not to rant about your problems, but to enjoy the feeling of reconnecting.

6. Energise

Instead of following a particular method to get your emotions under control, you might be better throwing the rule book out of the window and indulging in a fun, energising activity for 10 minutes.

“Do you love music? Turn up your home stereo and dance as hard as you can.”