8 Scientifically Proven Ways to Instantly Boost Your Mood

When was the last time you bought yourself flowers? Now's the time! Following are 8 scientifically proven ways to boost your mood:

1. Call Your Mom

A 2016 Stanford University study found that a phone call with your mother has a significant positive effect on mental well-being- similar to the comfort of a hug after falling in the park.

2. Step into the Sunlight

Instead of staring at screens indoors, go outside and soak up some sunshine. According to a study published in Dermato-Endocrinology, sunlight boosts your Vitamin D levels and uplifts your mood.

3. Smell a Clementine

Love citrus? A 2005 study in Chemical Senses showed that the scent of a clementine energizes people and makes them feel happier. Grab one, take a whiff, and see how your mood changes. Bonus: they’re packed with Vitamin C, too.

4. Practice Generosity

A 2017 University of Zurich study revealed that generous people are happier than those who act only in self-interest. Doing something kind for someone else activates brain regions associated with happiness. Why not give it a try?

5. Smile- Even If You Don’t Feel Like It

Even a forced smile can work wonders. A 2008 study in the Journal of Pain found that mimicking emotional expressions- even when not genuine- can lead to actually experiencing the emotion. Fake it till you feel it.

6. Buy Yourself Flowers

In a 2005 Evolutionary Psychology study, researchers discovered that the colors of fresh flowers can elevate mood for days. Flowers don’t just brighten your home- they lift your spirit.

7. Take a Break from Social Media

A 2016 study in Computers in Human Behavior found that heavy social media users are 2.7 times more likely to experience depression and sadness compared to those who use it sparingly. Reduce your screen time and feel the emotional lift.

8. Make Someone Else Smile

A 2014 study found that when people were tasked with making someone else smile through a generous act, they themselves experienced increased happiness. In other words, bring joy to others, and you’ll feel it too.