At times, everyone gets the blues or feels mild depression without recognizing a specific reason for it. It can hit without warning, but we don't have to stay there for long. In fact, it's healthier for us to move as quickly as we can to a more positive mood, right?

How to Cheer Up huh??

I consider this list as my own little ways to cheer up. The next time you feel blue you can try one or more of these to see what works for you. Then keep these cheering up tools handy for future use, okay?

1. Breathe

Breathe deeply and slowly, noticing each breath you inhale and exhale.

2. Laugh

Laughter is the best medicine. Keep handy a book of jokes or a favorite comic strip cartoon. When you feel blue or melancholy, immerse yourself in the humor and go for a stomach-aching full laugh. Deep laughter improves your immune system and helps you keep life's problems in perspective.

3. Return to Nature

Go for a walk in a park, sit by a fountain, or gaze at a poster of your favorite ocean or mountain scene. Reflecting on a beautiful natural scene can lift your spirits.

4. Gratitude

Make a brief list of three to five things in your life for which you are grateful. Reflect on each item and identify the positive way it impacts your life.

5. Give of Yourself

Providing an uplifting message or thought to someone else also uplifts you. Call an elderly relative or friend. Helping others move your focus and will improve your spirits.

6. Exercise

A brisk walk or any other form of physical exercise will improve your mood. Clean the house, toilet, kitchen, everything laa. These physical activities will help lift up your mood.

7. Daydream

Recall a great vacation or a wonderful family reunion.

8. Tend Something You Care About

Tend to a pet, or your car. When we tend something we provide a loving, caring attention to it that is a form of giving. Tending is not a chore, it's a blessing.

9. Apologize

Guilt and regret can hang around us like a lead weight, bringing on mild depression without our awareness of the cause. Offer up a sincere apology for things you've done or said that offended or hurt another. You'll feel the relief of your burden of regret even if you aren't able to personally deliver the apology. Offering it up to the Universe is sufficient.

Now let's chase our blue n mild depression away!! xoxo -B-