February 22, 2016 | By News & Views.
You slept through your alarm. You’re PMSing big time.
Unfortunately, crawling back under the covers isn’t a viable bad-mood
solution. But there are a number of minimal-effort fixes to help you
face the day with a smile (a false one counts, too). Use these
strategies to rewire a lousy mood—or even amp up a good one.
Go for a run
Post-jog euphoria extends beyond the release of endorphins; recent
animal research suggests that running leads to a rush of
endocannabinoids, chemicals in the brain linked to pleasure. You could
feel perked up within five minutes of finishing a run. Research also
shows that running may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
Crack a grin
Even if it’s totally fake. Research out of Clark University in
Worcester, Mass., revealed that smiling appears to activate the
happiness centers of the brain. A different study found that smiling
during a tense moment may help reduce your body’s stress response,
whether or not you actually feel happy.
Take a bath or shower
It’s an old natural health remedy known as hydrotherapy. A review
published last year in the North American Journal of Medical Sciences
suggests that 10 minutes of whirlpool bathing increases feelings of
well-being and decreases anxiety, while cold showers may have an
antidepressive effect.
Eat chocolate
The sweet snack contains the compound phenylethylamine, as well as
caffeine, both of which are stimulants with mood-enhancing abilities.
Cocoa also boosts levels of serotonin—nicknamed the “happy hormone”—in
the brain. Stick to a square (or two) of dark chocolate; it typically
packs more antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate.
Hug or high-five a pal
Touching releases oxytocin (the love hormone) and lowers levels of
the stress hormone cortisol, which can make you feel more at ease.
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