6 Mood Boosters That Don't Cost a Dime (Plus 10 More For Good Measure!)

I get an email coupon flyer from RedPlum.  They also have articles on a bit of everything.  I liked this one.

You’re in the doldrums, for no good reason. What can you do without blowing your budget - or your diet? Lots! Whether it's the post-4 pm slump or something that's going on a little longer, try these ideas.

1. Go outside.
2. Meditate in nature. A secluded stream is great, but flowers and a fountain works, too.
3. Exercise. Find something you don’t hate and that doesn’t hurt. Add other mood busters, like music or friends, to make it fun.
4. Accomplish something. It feels so good to finish a task!
5. Smile. Studies show that simply smiling lifts your mood. It works especially well when people smile back!
6. Read something positive – a verse, a devotional, or a daily affirmation.
7. Create something beautiful. Draw a picture, rearrange the mantle, or paint your toenails.
8. Call a friend. (What are you saving those cell phone minutes for?)
9. Smell flowers, spices, or a candle. Or a baby’s head if there’s one nearby.
10. Visualize ocean waves. Personal finance expert Erica Sandberg pictures troubles coming and going like waves.
11. Listen to happy music. Make a playlist of music that you can’t be grumpy to.
12. Turn off the computer and enter the real world.
13. Give something– fresh-baked cookies, picked flowers, a blood donation, your time. Even advice if you can get away with it.
14. Look at old photos. Post the funniest ones on Facebook.
15. Go to the library and read what you want, not necessarily what you should. Try humor books, magazines, or travel books.
16. Count your blessings. It’s old-fashioned, but tried and true. Sometimes we forget how many things we should be happy about.

 Note: If you have more than a passing sadness, especially if you can’t explain why you feel bad, see your health professional. Many times, blues have a physical reason. With care, you can soon be living life to the fullest again.