Mood medicines

Feeling down? Don't throw yourself off a cliff and don't go shopping (your credit card's probably already rocking in a corner with the stress of the silly season). Instead, grab a dose of happy from one of these 10 mood medicines:

1. Listen
Plug in your iPod and groove to a new hit, an old fav or something totally dorky that you can’t help but smile at (Agadoo, anyone?)

2. Go
Escape your usual environment. Ditch the house or office and investigate a new place. Climb a handy mountain or explore your local hardware store.

3. Do
Not just anything. Do good. Help someone in need, make a donation or sponsor someone.

4. Cook
Make something you’ve never made before. Not a great cook? Even flopped soufflé’s taste okay, so focus on the experience, not the product.

5. Achieve
Score a few quick wins. Straightening out the pot drawer will only take five minutes but you’ll feel better for it. Same with finally paying the dog registration and sewing on your buttons.

6. Drive
Take a cruise somewhere scenic. Take the dog with you.

7. Exercise
Weights, walking or water basketball – doesn’t matter. Endorphins boost your mood.

8. Hug
Get one or give one. Or both. (Hint: you don't have to stop at one.)

9. Get in touch
With nature, that is. Walk in the rainforest, dig your garden, bask in the sunshine or swim in the ocean.

10. Thank
Be grateful for all that you have and thankful for all the blessings in your life.


Image: federico stevanin