Did you know dark chocolate can be good for your health? It’s true: Beyond tasting good, it’s pretty much the equivalent of a sweaty workout (well, it mimics the effects, at least!). That’s because chocolate contains flavonoids, otherwise known as plant-based antioxidants, which promote better blood flow and help lower cholesterol. Studies have also found that eating chocolate elevates your mood, due to triggering the release of those feel-good endorphins. So treat yourself! Break off a piece of a 70 percent dark chocolate bar, or add a few teaspoons of cocoa to a mug with milk for a rich hot chocolate—and enjoy.
Candles are more than just easy decorations. That flicker of light creates a cozy, warm ambience that zaps stress and just makes you feel good (what were you worried about, again?). There are also different candle scents known for their uplifting qualities, like vanilla, citrus, peppermint, and jasmine. Lighting a favorite candle, seeing it come to life, and letting the warm glow surround you is a simple happiness ritual you can do any time of day. Try a candle with a wooden wick for an added crackling-fire effect reminiscent of snow days spent by the fireplace.
Selfies can get a bad rap, but sometimes taking your own picture makes you feel good about yourself. It’s a quick way to boost your self-esteem and appreciate your unique features. Give it a try, and feel free to get a little silly with it—a laugh at your own expense may be just the thing to send a bad mood packing.
Instead of opening your mailbox or email to a bunch of clutter, unsubscribe from all the junk. Check online for easy steps you can take to remove your name from random promotions, coupons, catalogs, etc. Then, unsubscribe from those pesky email newsletters and offers. Now enjoy the freedom of receiving only mail you actually want!
Mindful drinking, no matter the beverage, allows you to really focus on the present moment and enjoy the smell and taste of whatever is in hand. Maybe it’s the sweetness of a lemonade, or the rich warmth of an energizing first sip of coffee in the a.m. Instead of guzzling it down as you run out the door, take a thoughtful sip and enjoy the taste, smell, touch, and even sound of the moment.
Therapy is a wonderful tool for managing the stress of everyday life, as well as any other obstacles that may get between you and happiness. You’ll learn techniques for tackling negative thoughts and emotions head-on; you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of yourself and what makes you happy.
A Sun Salutation is a series of yoga poses done in a sequence to strengthen and tone your muscles. But beyond that, doing Sun Salutations can help release tension and clear negative thoughts. Talk to a yoga teacher or use an online tutorial to learn the poses, then try them at home for a fun mood-booster (and workout!).
Leafy, dark greens such as arugula, kale, and spinach are chock-full of natural goodness. They fight inflammation and are high in magnesium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids—both of which improve your mood by relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression. Throw a handful of greens into your omelet, toss them into a homemade soup, or use them in a salad.
These sets include hundreds of words in the form of mini magnets that you can mix and match on your refrigerator door. Have fun laying out your favorite song lyrics or making up your own poems to put a smile on your face every time you walk by.
Wheatgrass has amazing benefits: As a superfood, it packs a punch of vitamins and other nutrients that help promote better health and a happy mood. And because it supports digestion, it can lead to more energy too. Sip on a wheatgrass shot and feel good about nourishing your body.
Nothing beats the comfort of slipping into cozy pajamas—especially after a long day. It also serves as a mental transition: You’re switching from go-go-go mode to relaxation mode. Knowing the only thing on your agenda is chilling out makes you feel good about the night ahead.