It’s February and 60 degrees here in Cleveland Ohio. What?!
It just feels absolutely crazy…in a really good way.
I have to tell you, I’ve already mentally made the shift to spring so this weekend when the temperature drops again (or when we get our next snow…let’s be real, it’s coming) I know that transition back to cold is going to be a tough one.
So I’ve started thinking about some quick and easy 5-minute (or less) mood boosters to help us all through these last few weeks of wacky (and quite possibly very cold) weather.
1. Dance it out. Music and movement are two of the fastest ways to change how we feel. Put them together and we almost instantly feel better. Try it in the car with some tunes and shoulder dancing. Try it in the kitchen with your family and furry friends as you’re making dinner. Try it in the shower – crank it up and sing your heart out! Pick something upbeat and that when you hear it – you just can’t help yourself – you simply must move!
2. Fresh flowers. Grab a bouquet next time you’re at the store (and every time there after). The brighter and more colorful, the better. I’m a big Costco fan and they have really great flowers – they’re beautiful, they last, they’re a great price AND there are enough to fill a few vases. Walk in a room, see the flowers – instant mood booster.
3. Funny T.V. There’s nothing like a good belly laugh to boost our mood and with most of us having quick and easy access to t.v. these days, we might as well use it to our advantage. I almost always have the t.v. on while I’m making breakfast or dinner – I like a little background noise (and never the depressing and scary news). The Big Bang Theory is probably my most favorite show ever, and within 5 minutes I almost always cracking up. Some of my other go to’s are Mike and Molly reruns or Modern Family reruns. It’s pretty impossible to stay in a funk when you’re laughing out loud.
4. Smell citrus. Diffuse some lavender and lime essential oil, peel and eat an orange, use a citrus scented body wash or lotion, or squeeze half a lemon in tea or water. Try one or try them all. The scent of citrus is well known to boost one’s mood, alertness and energy – an easy peasy almost instantaneous mood booster.
5. Get outside. Yep, regardless of snow or sunshine – get out there and breathe in the fresh air. It costs nothing and can be done all year long. Just take a few deep breaths or go for a quick walk – you’ll notice a difference in 5 minutes or less!
Emily Capuria is a psychotherapist turned coach and lifestyle strategist. She is passionate about teaching people how to live happy and fulfilling lives, on their terms, regardless of the hand they’re dealt. Download her FREE guide on how to get the clarity and confidence you need to get started now at http://balancethrive.com/life-you-do-want/.