5 happiness hacks to boost your mood quickly

The world around you feels like it is collapsing and you can feel the stress and anxiety building up.

Although these temporary mood boosters are not treatment for mental health problems, they may turn a bad day around.

To get you smiling again here are some things you can consider doing.

1. Watch a funny clip
This may sound silly and all the way up there with downright ridiculous but you will be amazed at how effective this method is.

According to studies, people who watch funny videos for a period of 20 minutes had much lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

2. Step out
Forget all you have heard about the negative effects of sun exposure and put yourself out there for some much-needed sunlight and fresh air.

Studies show that being out in the sun is a free mood enhancer. Other than boosting your vitamin D supply and boosting your immune system, it also reduces stress, fights off depression and helps one sleep better by releasing melatonin.

3. Sleep
Besides lowering health risks, maintaining your immunity and giving your body the rest it needs to repair and work on itself, a good eight hour window of sleep will get you ready for the next day. When you’re well rested, you are in a much better mood and you can think critically.

If you’re struggling to fall asleep consider taking a warm bath before bedtime, having a cup of chamomile tea or engage in an activity that will lower your stress levels to help you worry less and fall asleep fast.

4. Bake
Simple things like dessert could be all the pick-me-up you need. Grab a recipe book and bake yourself some cookies or healthy vegan cupcakes.

The overall process will have your mind occupied and before you know it you are much happier especially if they turn out better than you had anticipated. And as you take the first bite, you will soon realize it is impossible to be sad when eating something you enjoy.

5. Get a hug
The power of human touch runs deep. Sometimes all you need is a shoulder to lean on and someone to hug you and let you know that all will be well.

Physical contact or even just sitting next to someone has been proven to make us happier and healthier. Having a strong effect in women especially, oxytocin levels were much higher in women who had good relationships and frequently received hugs from their partners or kids.