COUNTRYSIDE MOOD BOOSTING ACTIVITIES
IN NEED OF A MOOD BOOST?
These countryside activities are proven to lift the spirits immediately.
In life, all we want is to be happy in whatever form or definition that exists for us. And what better than a few simple fixes that can boost our mood and spirits by simply stepping out of the front door.
Below are some things us countryside-dwellers are lucky enough to be able to do right now, that will make us feel happier. Perhaps you do a few of them already? If not, why not give them a try...
GO INTO THE WOODS
Studies suggest that the stress causing hormone (cortisol) is significantly lower in those who dwell in forests instead of urban areas and cities. The researchers call this "forest therapy" and say, "stressful states can be relieved" by it.
STROLL THROUGH YOUR WORRIES
Even a short walk among Mother Nature could help you beat the blues. A Californian study followed two groups of people – the first group took a walk through a city, the second walked through the country. Those who walked in nature had fewer negative thoughts than before, while the urban dwellers did not.
GET MUDDY
It may sound like a silly idea, but sniffing dirt may actually lift your mood. According to a study, a bacteria found in soil has similar effects to antidepressant drugs. The bacteria Mycobacterium vaccae is completely harmless and is said to stimulate the release of serotonin (a hormone that makes us happier) in the brain.
WRITE DOWN YOUR FEELINGS
Writing your feelings down helps to clarify them, relieving stress and enabling you to solve problems more effectively. Sit in the garden, local park or the countryside with a notepad and write away your troubles...
VOLUNTEER
Whether you plant trees, spend time with the elderly, or help out at a wildlife refuge, volunteering is renowned for its ability to boost psychological health. A simple act of giving your time to help others is linked to a reduced risk of depression and a higher amount of overall satisfaction.
MEDIATE
Quietly focusing on the present moment and ousting all other thoughts from your weary mind for even a few minutes can help diminish anxiety and depression. meditation helps increase our emotional control if done regularly. On a brighter day, try doing it outside for an extra element of mindfulness.
EAT OUTSIDE
According to a study carried out by the University of Sussex, workers who ate lunch on the beach were happier than those who ate lunch at their desks. The study also found that people who ate in parks or outside in general were more positive than those who ate in restaurants. A good dose of vitamin D helps keep misery at bay.
WRITE DOWN THINGS YOUR GRATEFUL FOR EACH DAY
Through writing down the things you feel thankful for, you're really taking the time to appreciate the good things in life, which helps enhance feelings of positivity and satisfaction. Although it may be hard to choose between all the lovely things in life.
GET SWEATY
Did you know? That with just 20 minutes of exercise can give you a huge mood boost (for as long as 12 hours). Keeping fit and getting your heartbeat up helps to increase feel good chemicals, whilst relieving depression and staving off stress. Exercising outdoors is a great way to feel refreshed and experience that sought after sense of awe.
