1. Get outside
Natural light helps stabilise serotonin and triggers endorphins, both mood boosting hormones.
- Forget dry January
The University of Columbia says Champagne contains proteins that are beneficial for short-term memory and can help stave off dementia.
- Take a break
Change your physical location and you change your perspective on the world.
- Smile at a stranger
Research says tiny gestures can make people feel more connected to the world and release feel-good chemicals in your brain.
- Pamper yourself
Taking some time out allows you to de-stress and reboot your energy to take on the next day.
- Get physical
The NHS says exercise helps boost self-esteem, makes you sleep better, gives you more energy and those who regularly work out have up to 30% lower risk of depression.
- Watch a funny film
Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease. Our top five films: Bad Moms, Ghostbusters, Barber Shop: The Next Cut and The Nice Guys.
- Go to bed earlier
NHS guidelines say most adults need between six and nine hours of sleep each night. Getting the recommended amount will help you feel refreshed and better able to function the next day.
- Eat more chocolate
It boosts levels of serotonin, which is the brain’s antidepressant, and endorphins. Dark chocolate can also reportedly cut levels of stress hormones.
- And finally…breathe
Breathe in through the nose, hold until it feels slightly uncomfortable and then slowly breathe out. When you breathe through the nose rather than the mouth you automatically take in the right amount of oxygen, because it restricts the amount of air you inhale. Five of those breaths will even out your neurochemistry and will make you feel more calm.
If none of the above work, just ring us up for a chat. We’re sure we can make you smile.