That is the Spirit

Everyone gets down in the dumps at some point. But you don’t have to stay there. Pull yourself up with these boot-strap grabbers:

Put on your workout shoes. Physical activity can lift your spirits. In as little as 20 minutes, you can feel the mood-enhancing effects of endorphins — which invigorate energy, renew optimism, and boost overall contentment — not to mention the sense of accomplishment. Even just a walk around the block builds confidence and adds new thoughts… a prelude to a more hopeful outlook.

Lend a hand. Nothing pays back like paying it forward. Helping another shifts your attention from your woes to someone else’s needs, which can trigger personal reevaluation. You’re likely to emerge with a sense of gratitude and encouragement that helps shake off the doldrums.

Try something new. Sometimes negativity stems from boredom. Commit to take a new class, start a new project, or meet a new friend. Change heightens anticipation and challenges you out of your comfort zone — a good prescription for beating the mundane.

Eat a happy meal. Vitamins D (the sunshine hormone) and B may help lift serotonin levels. Boost your B with bananas, eggs, whole grains, and fish — which also contains heart-healthy omega-3s. Absorb some rays to get your vitamin D. And studies show that chocolate really can make you feel better. Just don’t overindulge; too much sugar can send you back into a funk.