For many, the holiday season is a joyful time filled with laughter and celebration. But it can also bring a bit of extra stress, as we try to squeeze in everything on our to-do lists!
Here are five practices to help elevate your mood and cultivate a positive mindset.
Gratitude Journaling
Why it works: Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and activate the brain's reward system. Research shows that regularly expressing gratitude increases happiness and reduces stress.
How to do it: Each day, write down three to five things you're grateful for. They don't have to be big; it could be a warm cup of coffee, a smile from a friend or even the feeling of the sun on your face. Over time, this practice helps rewire your brain to focus on the positive. (Learn more here.)
Physical Movement & Stretching
Why it works: Physical activity releases endorphins (the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals), which can help improve your mood. Stretching and movement also reduce muscle tension, increase energy and boost mental clarity.
How to do it: Aim for at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise each day. This could be a brisk walk, a light jog, yoga or even dancing around your living room. Incorporating simple stretches throughout the day can also help alleviate stress.
Mindful Breathing or Meditation
Why it works: Mindfulness and deep breathing can trigger the body's relaxation response, reducing stress, anxiety and negative emotions. This practice helps you stay grounded in the present moment and calm your mind.
How to do it: Try the "4-7-8" breathing technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds and exhale slowly for 8 seconds. You can also try a short guided meditation (just 5 to 10 minutes) using an app like Headspace or Calm.
Acts of Kindness
Why it works: Helping others can provide a deep sense of fulfillment and connection. It also releases oxytocin, the "love hormone," which makes you feel more bonded and happy.
How to do it: Perform small acts of kindness, like holding the door for someone, complimenting a colleague or donating to a charity. Even a quick message to check in on a friend can boost both their mood and yours.
Engage in Creative Expression
Why it works: Creativity stimulates the brain, and engaging in creative activities can provide an outlet for self-expression and emotional release. Whether it's painting, writing, crafting or cooking, the act of creating can be incredibly therapeutic.
How to do it: Set aside time to do something creative that you enjoy. You don't need to be an expert—just express yourself without judgment. Even doodling or journaling your thoughts can be a form of creative release.
These practices can help shift your focus, reduce stress and encourage a more positive, uplifting mindset. The key is consistency—doing a little bit each day will help you build momentum for lasting mood elevation!
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
The information in this blog is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consultation with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional. Consultation with a doctor or qualified healthcare practitioner is strongly advised before starting any regimen of supplementation, a change in diet or any exercise routine. Individuals who engage in supplementation to promote health, address conditions or support any structure or function of the body assume all risks. Women who are pregnant, especially, should seek the advice of a medical doctor before taking any dietary supplement and before starting any change in diet or lifestyle. Descriptions of herbs, vitamins, nutrients or any ingredients are not recommendations to take our products or those of any other company. We are not doctors or primary-source science researchers. Instead, we defer to the findings of scientific experts who conduct studies, as well as those who compile and publish scientific literature on the potential health benefits of nutrients, herbs, spices, vitamins or minerals. We cannot guarantee that any individual will experience any of the health benefits associated with the nutrients described. Natural Organics will not be held liable for any injuries, damages, hindrances or negative effects resulting from any reliance on the information presented, nor will Natural Organics be held accountable for any inaccuracy, miscalculation or error in the scientific literature upon which the information provided is based.
