GirlsGuideTo | 6 Ways to Boost Your Mood – Naturally

It’s a fact of like that we all get crabby from time to time, but being in a bad mood is definitely the worst. And sometimes there doesn’t even seem to be a reason for it–we just walk around with a case of the blahs. But, with a little knowledge, you can tap into your inner hippie and let Mother Nature help you. Sure, there are the obvious solutions like getting more exercise, more sunshine and more sleep, but there are also some other great ways to lift your spirits naturally. Take a look!

Load Up on Omega-3
Foods like salmon, flaxseed, walnuts and olive oil help to feed your brain cells, improving mood and your overall outlook on your day. As a bonus, these healthy-fat foods also improve memory while keeping you full for hours.

Get a Little Dirty
According to new research, a bacteria found in soil called Mycobacterium can be a natural mood lifter. Apparently the microbes in dirt stimulate the same neurons that Prozac does, making it a very healthy and natural way to feel good. This is just one more great reason to get out in the garden and grow your own organic foods. No garden? Volunteer to clean up your community or start a windowsill garden of your favorite cooking herbs!

Know Which Fruits To Eat
Popping berries after gorging on cheeseburgers and fries probably won’t do the trick. But eating “mood foods” 75% of the time will help you find more energy, think more clearly and drop additional pounds - with a sunnier outlook to boot.

Those "mood foods" include fresh fruits like oranges, which help to pump more oxygen through your body and brain to recharge your system. Blueberries can also help you ditch the blues. This "superfruit" is chock-full of antioxidants that promote positive energy. And tart cherries are a great source of melatonin, which helps promote a restful night's sleep. And we all know what a difference sleep can make on our moods!

Try St. John's Wort
This herb has been studied continuously as a natural mood booster and remedy for depression. Generally, the results have been favorable and St. John’s Wort has consistently outperformed placebos and even held its own against prescription antidepressants.

Wash Your Hands
This sounds a little bizarre, but according to one study, washing your hands can help clear your mind, relieve stress and reduce worry. A clear mind allows more positive thoughts to flow, so wash up.

Eat More Chocolate
Umm, Chocolate? Don't mind if we do! The tryptophan (yes the same one in your Thanksgiving turkey) in this dark delight helps to boost the mood-lifting serotonin in our brain. Researchers found that even the taste, texture, and smell make us happy. I think anyone could have told them that!