In this post we discuss how to boost your mood naturally. The stress in our everyday life can really take a toll on us, both mentally and physically. When we feel the stress of life catching up to us, it can make us feel sad, anxious, or depressed, which may cause symptoms such as irritability or even difficulty sleeping.
We experience these symptoms because of the low level of neurotransmitters in the brain. At times the levels of serotonin and dopamine, in particular, may get low which in turn causes for the fluctuations in mood. We need these good hormones balanced in the brain in order for us to stay positive and upbeat when life throws a curve ball.
There are drugs that may keep us from being depressed but comes along with a list of possible side effects which occur more often than not in the people who take the drugs. Not only are there are studies that prove that antidepressants do not always work, but they also cause other symptoms to occur in people such as anxiety.
There are many ways you can boost your mood naturally without taking any sort of antidepressant or drug. When you use natural resources to improve your mood there is no need to worry about the side effects because simple things like taking a walk in nature and soaking up sunlight doesn’t come with a list of side effects.
#1: Exercise
Harvard Medical School recommends exercising at least 3 times each week in order to reduce your risk of dementia and other health conditions. Exercise boosts levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, and has been shown to be as effective as antidepressants.
#2: Sunshine
Exposure to sunlight increases a hormone called serotonin in the brain, which is associated with mood boosting and can help a person feel more calm and focused. Receiving adequate amounts of sunlight daily is a great way to increase natural Vitamin D production. Sunlight exposure stimulates Vitamin D, which is critical to the function of the central nervous system. Vitamin D acts in the body to maintain homeostasis, boost immunity and scavenge free radicals. Getting anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands, and face two to three times a week is enough to see the benefits of Vitamin D.
#3: Boost Your Mood Naturally with Epsom Salt Baths
Epsom salt baths are great for not only relieving stress but also 
improving mood. When Epsom salt is dissolved in warm water, it is absorbed through the skin and can naturally replenish lost magnesium. This magnesium helps the body produce serotonin, which is a mood elevating chemical in the brain. People with depression are shown to have high levels of inflammation; bathing in Epsom salt helps to rid their bodies of toxins that may be the cause of their inflammation. Magnesium also increases energy and stamina by encouraging the production of ATP – the energy powerhouse of the cell. Bathing in Epsom salt three times a week can help increase your energy, improve your mood and reduce the negative impacts of elevated adrenaline. Use 2 cups of Epsom salt in each full bath.
#4: Good Sleeping Habits
Difficulty sleeping is sometimes the first sign of depression. Bad sleeping habits can increase the release of cortisol in the body which may cause a downward health spiral. Sleeping especially between the hours of 10 and 2 can increase the good hormones in the body which in turn will make you feel better overall.
#5: Chocolate
Dark chocolate, 70% cacao or greater, is an excellent source of magnesium. Magnesium relaxes the nerves, relieves muscle tension and reduces excitability and irritation. Chocolate stimulates the release of endorphins, natural hormones produced by the brain, that generates feelings of pleasure and promotes a sense of well-being. Moderation is key; one to two ounces a day is a good amount for daily consumption.
#6: Boost Your Mood Naturally with Supplementation
Supplementation is a great way to improve your overall mood. With a supplement such as Dopamine Active it can help to uplift your mood without any of the harmful effects of antidepressant drugs. The ingredients in Dopamine Active work synergistically to support a positive mental outlook, without the unpleasant side-effects of pharmaceutical antidepressant medications. Also, unlike prescription antidepressants, this product is not habit-forming and will not induce dependency or withdrawal symptoms.
Do you know someone who struggles with stress, anxiety, or depression? Be sure to share this article with them. It could be the answer they’ve been looking for.