20 mood-boosting activities

We know how it feels to be low and a bit lost. You want that feeling to be over, but aren’t sure how. Rather than hoping for a quick recovery and praying for that bad feeling to pass, sometimes you need the patience to do little things that make you feel a bit better. Over time, you will see an improvement.

Here’s a list of 20 simple things you can do at home to help yourself feel better right now. Stick it somewhere where you can see it often and choose a couple of things to do several times a day. It’s free, low-tech and you don’t need much equipment.

1, Sing a song (with gusto!)

2, Practice penmanship – beautifully write out the alphabet.

3, Watch some comedy on TV. Laughing is so good for you.

4, Play with your pets.

5, Meditate for ten minutes.

6, Do a drawing, whether you’re a good artist or not.

7, Listen (really listen) to music you love.

8, Bake something.

9, Do a jigsaw.

10, Write down three things for which you feel grateful.

11, Close your eyes, sit up straight and take ten slow mindful breaths.

12, Read a book or poem.

13, Take a bath.

14, Talk with your most supportive friend or family member.

15, Put on music and dance – even if you have to do it sitting down!

16, Write a story or keep a journal.

17, Write a letter to someone. Even if you can’t post it at the moment, keep it somewhere safe until you can.

18, Give yourself a hand or foot massage.

19, Tidy your space and make your bed every day. Whether you tidy a sock drawer or clear out a cupboard, taking care of tasks can be really rewarding.

20, Find a way to really connect with nature. If you have a garden or access to a safe outside space, simply sit and enjoy the fresh air and listen to the birds singing.

Click here to download a copy to print and stick on your fridge