The day to day stress of life can get anybody down. Statistics show that yearly about 6% of Americans go through a major depressive episode. Even if you are not clinically depressed, stress and anxiety can take their toll.
Taking care of yourself includes taking care of your mind and your mood, but it’s important to seek help when you need it. It’s true that the symptoms of major depression may make positivity boosting activities too difficult to achieve—always speak to your doctor if regular daily activities begin to feel like too much for you.
While nothing can take the place of medical intervention, there are little things you can do to help improve your positivity! These tips are meant to be wellness and positivity inspiring ideas for your life!
1 – Volunteer
There are as many different types of non-profits in need of volunteers as there are varieties of candy bars in the grocery store. Volunteering has the advantage of actually being good for you. A recent study showed that 78% of people who had volunteered in the previous twelve months reported that volunteering lowered their stress level. That’s a pretty spectacular result! On top of that, 94% said their mood improved when they volunteered and 96% said their sense of purpose in life was enriched when they volunteered. Talk about a positivity booster!
2 – Exercise
There are a great many benefits to regular exercise from trimming your waistline to improving your heart health. Exercise can also be a real positivity booster. Part of that positivity boost is actually chemical, because exercise releases endorphins which can make you feel energized and positive. Regular exercise is not just good for your mood, but also good for your self-esteem. Don’t feel like you have to begin a rigorous daily exercise routine in order to see benefits, either. Just 15-20 minutes a day of exercise that raises your heart rate, even if it’s just a brisk walk, will be enough to show you great results.
3 – Pets
We call dogs man’s best friends for a reason. And it’s hard to deny that cats should be in the running for that title as well. But did you know that owning a pet is associated with better health? Owning a dog is linked to improved heart health and can also help lower your blood pressure. But the benefits of having a pet in your home and interacting with that pet can also improve stress. A study showed that 74% of people said they had mental health improvements from owning a pet. What a great reason to visit your local animal shelter and bring home a new friend today!
4 – Spend time in nature
This may seem like an obvious tip, but science absolutely backs it up. Time spent in green and natural spaces can help you cope with stress and improve your mood. While getting back to the wilderness has the best effects, even looking at a green space or listening to nature sounds can have a calming effect!
