Trick yourself happy…

Banish that bad mood and drum up a little happiness whenever and wherever you please

It’s completely normal to feel down in the dumps from time to time. All sorts of things can affect our moods, whether it’s disappointing news, a disagreement or simply getting out the wrong side of the bed. It can be hard to shrug off that invisible grey cloud – but sometimes all you need is a quick pick-me-up to lift your spirits and improve your mood. Call a friend “In the era of social media, calling someone to have a chat sadly doesn’t happen as often as it used to,” says Olga Levancuka, life coach and author of How to be Selfish. Though it’s tempting to avoid the company of others when you’re feeling low, this can sometimes make you feel even worse. “Talking to a dear friend or a loved one for a few minutes can actually work wonders for your mood,” says Olga. There’s nothing quite as uplifting as hearing a friendly, up-beat voice on the other end of the phone. “Sharing a joke, reminiscing about a funny situation and having a good old catch-up will not only cheer you up, but spontaneous chit-chat may unexpectedly improve the day for the person you’re calling, too.” Pause and recharge “If you’re feeling overwhelmed or low it’s always a good idea to take a moment to pause and look after yourself,” says Olga. “Make a cuppa, find somewhere peaceful to sit and slowly sip your drink, without thinking about anything. Just remind yourself that you’re choosing to stop and be you, rather than doing everything else for other people.” It’s always important to set aside some ‘me-time’ – even if it is only for a few minutes. Doodle, draw or colour “Doodling has proven therapeutic effects and is a simple yet powerful way to boost your mood,” says Olga. “Focus on and observe what you’re drawing and let go of whatever you were thinking and feeling earlier. Draw something that makes you feel happy, whether it’s an animal, sunset or a tree. Sketching something detached from any negative feelings will make you feel happier in the moment.” Alternatively, you might want to try an adult colouring book; these are a very popular way to help de-stress and focus your mind away from things that may be troubling you. Go for a walk “Many of us often underestimate the extent to which just going for a walk will benefit our mood,” says Olga. “Take a quick trip around the block, go to the nearest bench and observe life passing by or pop to the local bakery to buy yourself or a loved one a treat.” Walking gets the blood pumping around your body which helps to boost energy levels and lifts mood. Smile Have you ever tried smiling while thinking of something sad or upsetting? If you haven’t, try it. “You will find it almost impossible to feel bad when you’re smiling,” says Sam. “This is one of the most underrated, simple techniques to change the way you feel without doing anything radical. Smiling is an attractive trait and the more you do it, the more you’ll be associated with being a happy and likeable person. Give it a go when your mood needs lifting.”

Spontaneous chit-chat may unexpectedly improve the day for the other person too Playing with your pets can increase your production of the happiness hormone, oxytocin