
Simple Exercises That Boost Mood and Reduce Anxiety
You don't need intense or long workouts to improve your mood and reduce depression risk; even short, moderate exercise can be beneficial.
All articles tagged with #mood boost

You don't need intense or long workouts to improve your mood and reduce depression risk; even short, moderate exercise can be beneficial.

To combat the negative effects of shorter, darker days, the article suggests going to bed earlier, getting outside in the morning, eating mood-boosting berries, adding houseplants, exercising with proper gear, socializing, and using fairy lights to improve mood and regulate circadian rhythms during autumn and winter.

A fitness editor introduces the 3-4-5 walking workout, a HIIT-style walking routine that involves alternating between low and high intensity for a total of 35 minutes, designed to boost cardiovascular health and mood while being accessible and easy to do anywhere.

Social media personality Tabitha Brown and brain experts advocate for trying new experiences to combat habituation and boost mood, as novelty stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain. Simple changes like exploring new places, amplifying good habits, taking breaks from routine activities, and experiencing novelty in shorter, more frequent bursts can all contribute to a positive impact on mood. However, it's important to choose new activities carefully to ensure they are positive and proactive.

An osteopath has shared a simple eye movement exercise that can boost dopamine levels in just 30 seconds. By darting the gaze between each index finger without moving the head, the exercise can stimulate activities and feelings associated with attention, exploration, and reward. While the eye movements themselves do not directly release dopamine, they can indirectly enhance alertness, focus, and interest. This quick exercise can improve mood, focus, and overall function throughout the day.

Regular physical activity, such as cardio and strength training, can have numerous benefits for mental health. Exercise can change the brain by enhancing neuroplasticity and improving brain function, making individuals better equipped to handle setbacks and adapt. It can boost mood by increasing the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. Exercise also helps with emotion regulation by teaching individuals how to tolerate distress and uncomfortable sensations in a controlled way. It strengthens the mind-body connection, stimulates the vagus nerve, and increases heart rate variability, which can protect against mental health issues. Additionally, exercise can improve body image and overall well-being.
The summer season often brings a boost in mood due to increased sun exposure, more time spent outside, higher likelihood for exercise, vacationing, and increased socializing. To maintain this positive mood throughout the year, individuals can engage in outdoor winter activities, establish a consistent exercise routine, plan winter vacations, and prioritize socializing to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness during colder months.

The summer season often brings a boost in mood due to factors such as increased time spent outside, exposure to sunlight, more opportunities for exercise, vacationing, and socializing. To maintain this positive feeling throughout the year, individuals can engage in outdoor winter activities, prioritize exercise, plan winter vacations, and organize social events to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness during colder months.