Long winters have a way of transferring their dreariness onto our mental health. There are only so many days of cold wind and gray skies a person can take before most of us get a little moody! Thankfully, spring has sprung, and the days are getting longer, so let\u2019s explore some mood-boosting activities to get the feel-good chemicals pumping and get over our winter funks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you love an organized fitness class to get your endorphins up, time alone outside absorbing Vitamin D, or a good night out with loved ones to cheer your spirits with some… umm… spirits, you\u2019ll find it on this ultimate list of mood-boosting activities. From nature lovers to bookworms, we\u2019ve gathered something for everyone. Let\u2019s get to it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re stuck on ideas of what to do to boost your mood, we’ve got the ultimate list of 52 options for you to choose from! Whether you’re having a night in with friends and family or are feeling more adventurous, we guarantee you’ll find something you love if you keep reading!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adventures From Scratch<\/em><\/a> is a trusted companion when in need of a good time. We’ve compiled three editions now, so whether you’re craving a romantic night with your partner, a good time with friends, or a wholesome day out with the whole family, you can find a plethora of appropriate adventures on our fun-filled pages. Each book contains more than 50 scratch-off activities that are focused on bonding and having a fantastic time. Just consult the key. Pick an adventure, scratch to reveal, and get moving. Our well-crafted, spontaneous adventures, will have you in a good mood in no time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you need a little pick-me-up today, download the Let\u2019s Roam Scavenger Hunt App<\/a> and sign up for a rousing hunt in your city. You\u2019ll explore all the best sights on a short walk filled with fun trivia and photo challenges. You can also choose to compete against previous hunters to capture the top spot on the city leaderboard. Our hunts are super informative, slightly competitive, and sure to keep you laughing, and we all know laughter is the best boot to kick those negative thoughts. We\u2019ve got hunts in over 600 locations<\/a>, so find one near you today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nothing fires up the nervous system like contemplating a unique and intricate piece of art\u2014especially if that art is sprawled across a gorgeous bridge. Admiring the best urban art gives you a chance to get some fresh air, get your steps in, and activate those neurotransmitters for a while. Check out our list of amazing art walks<\/a> in cities all over the United States!<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is nothing more exciting than planning for your next vacation! Looking at beautiful images, hunting online for the hotel with the best view, shopping for new trip clothes, and filling in the itinerary with every amazing tourist attraction within a 100-mile radius\u2014it just feels good! In some ways, planning for your next vacation is as good for your well-being as actually going on it. Just looking forward to a break gets the happy hormone, dopamine, flowing and puts you in an instantly positive mood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vitamin D, physical activity, fresh air, deep breathing, the beauty of nature…\u2019 nough said!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want the benefits of aerobic exercise without all that terrible running? Just hop in a really cold river, lake, or ice bath. Cold-water swimming is basically a controlled induction of pain that increases cortisol levels and then releases a massive dump of endorphins, giving you that euphoric feeling. Just beware, some swimmers experience a rebound of symptoms that feel a bit like anxiety after their first few swims, as the body tries to get the core temperature back up. It would be wise to consult your doctor before starting this regimen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A night of board games with friends is sure to induce some friendly competition, a little smack talk, and a lot of laughter. It might be just what you need to shake off those negative feelings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sometimes just the sound of a soothing voice on the other end of the line can have mood-boosting benefits. Multiple neurological studies, including one by Stanford University<\/a>, have indicated that the reward processing and emotion regions of our brains are highly activated when hearing our mother\u2019s voice. While your mom may or may not be available, think of whoever that person is that brings the most calmness, the most peace, to your life, and call them. Maybe it\u2019s mom, grandma, your best friend, or a sibling. Whoever it is, pick up the phone and hear their voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Farmer\u2019s markets offer a plethora of healthy mood-boosting foods, a chance to enjoy local crafts, and the opportunity to get outside, which can all help send the blues packing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Similarly, a visit to the orchard often allows you to pick your own fresh fruit, take a long walk in a beautiful environment, and fill your refrigerator with mood-boosting goodies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Animals bring joy. It\u2019s a fact, and petting zoos have tons of animals\u2014baby animals at that! We don\u2019t know anyone who isn\u2019t happy while petting a baby goat or a cuddly sheep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the best ways to get out of a funk is to focus on something that gives you purpose. Getting your eyes off your own situation and looking towards the needs of someone else or your community can be an excellent form of self-care. Find something you feel passionate about, and make it happen. This could be helping with a litter pickup in your neighborhood, organizing a charity drive, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or helping at an animal shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If this sounds like just the mood-lifter you need, then check out our list of \u201c65 Community Service Ideas for Every Type of Volunteer<\/a>\u201d for more great ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You get to raise money for a good cause. You get some exercise, and you get a beer with your race buddies after. Checks all the boxes, does it not?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Did you know that getting your hands dirty may just have immense benefits to your mental health? While research is ongoing, some studies are showing that microbial material in soil may have the ability to act as a natural stress reliever, helping to alleviate anxiety and symptoms of depression. So, go ahead, get dirty!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The positive effects of a thankful mindset are well-studied. People who actively focus on gratitude and mindfully journal those thoughts tend to be happier people. It\u2019s one of the little things we can do to help give our bad moods a boost! There are multiple gratitude journals out there, but we suggest getting one that has daily prompts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Have a favorite destination that you can reach by car? Go there this weekend. It might be a place on the lake where you enjoyed parts of your childhood, the park you got engaged in, or just a stunning landscape that makes you feel free. Take a few days and rest there!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A gently swaying hammock, on a nice spring day, might be the best sleep you\u2019ve had in a long time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll laugh. You\u2019ll cry. Your partner will make fun of you, and all the while, your brain will be releasing the \u201clove hormone\u201d oxytocin, improving your mood by the minute!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you prefer to get your kicks from a book instead of a screen, good on you! Pick up a light-hearted read that makes you giggle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A hug that lasts at least 20 seconds has shown to release feel-good hormones, strengthen the bond between huggers, and lower stressors. When done on a regular basis, hugging can help lead to more intimate bonds, lower rates of heart disease, and even add a little boost to your immune system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your mom probably said it, \u201cTake a deep breath, and calm down.\u201d Momma was right. Taking just a few minutes a day to get in a comfortable position and take 3-5 deep breaths can be an instant game-changer. Just breathe in and out of your nose. Put one hand on your chest, and the other on your stomach, and feel them both rise as you fill your lungs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Wildflower picking combines all the elements. You are out in the fresh air. You get some dirt under your nails. Your body gets some physical activity, and you get a pretty flower arrangement that will brighten your mood for days. It\u2019s an all-around win!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have little ones around, take a day to go and play. They\u2019ll get out some energy, and your mood will likely improve by watching them run, play, and giggle. Better yet, join in! Run, swing, twirl, or roll in the grass. You will look a little foolish to the other playground moms, but you and your kid will have a blast!<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s something cathartic about the wind in your hair and the smooth, repetitive, round-and-round motion of peddling. Get outside and take a ride today. Just remember to give those old tires a good check first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While alcohol is never the answer to long-term mental health issues, if you are just having a rough day, a night out with the crew is just what you need to lift your spirits! Choose one of our app-guided bar crawls<\/a>. We\u2019ll have you belly laughing in no time as you challenge your besties to fun trivia and photo challenges, dance the night away, and turn down those stress hormones with a little dose of sedative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’ve been feeling a little under the weather, getting dressed up and going out with your partner can be a major self-esteem booster. Put on your best dress. Perk up your legs and booty with a nice pair of heels. Do your hair and makeup, and treat yourself and your partner to a nice dinner and dancing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Facials, hot stone massages, foot spas, and a steam room\u2014feeling more relaxed already aren\u2019t you? (Unless you\u2019re one of those who doesn\u2019t like your feet touched. In that case, just stick to the sauna)!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A bubbling hot tub, with a big glass of wine, on a clear night where you can ponder the stars. There\u2019s no better remedy for a stressful day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dancing releases endorphins. Dancing makes you feel free, especially if no one else is around. So, crank up the Tay Tay, and do your thing like nobody\u2019s looking!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re afraid of heights, then obviously, this one will be anxiety-inducing for you. However, if you need a physical activity to get your mind off the stressors that are plaguing you, rock climbing is the perfect option. It takes concentration and intense focus on what every part of your body is doing, so there is no time for negative thoughts. Plus, once you conquer the wall, success is a thrill and a major boost for the self-esteem. Beware: you might get addicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Jumping on a trampoline just reminds you of the carefree days of childhood. If you weren\u2019t lucky enough to have carefree days or a trampoline in your life, then you are going to have to trust us on this one. There is something so relaxing about bounding through the air, landing on your butt, and getting back up to do it all over again. Trampoline parks have become pretty popular in the last few years, and we\u2019d be willing to bet there is one within a short drive unless you live in the Yukon or something, and then you\u2019ll just have to settle for that cold water swim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water is a stress reliever for most people, whether it\u2019s listening to the sound of the waves from a sunny beach, or feeling the spray from a motorboat barreling across the lake. Rent a pontoon boat and bring your friends. Hook up the tube and go for a ride. Camp out in the evening by the fire, and chow down on some s\u2019mores. You\u2019ll feel better in no time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Learning a new hobby, especially one that requires the creative portion of your brain can be quite relaxing. Take a guided art and wine class with a friend, or stay in your pajamas and paint along to a virtual one. Either way, you\u2019ll learn something new and have a beautiful piece of decor to hang when you’re done!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like painting, crafting something with your hands brings a sense of accomplishment. Plus, power tools are fun!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Perhaps your nemesis is something spiritual. If you are a spiritual person, take some time to meditate on it. Talk with your pastor, priest, or spiritual advisor, and get some advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While many of the activities on this list are short-term fixes for occasional down moments, talking to a counselor regularly can be an effective tool for helping manage more persistent symptoms of depression and stress. If you’re feeling out of sorts on the regular, it might be time to get some professional help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Free writing is a technique that allows your mind to run totally wild. Just sit down with a notepad, and begin writing in a free flow. Don\u2019t think over words. Don\u2019t edit out anything. Just write. It\u2019s basically the written form of an emotional outburst, and you may find that you feel much better afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some people find solace in cleaning, and almost everyone\u2019s stress is elevated by clutter. Taking some time to spruce up the place can occupy your mind and help reduce stress. Plus, the scent of lemon and orange (citrus cleaning products) has been shown to help reduce anxiety<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like lapping waves, dancing flames are just mesmerizing, and they seem to have a calming effect on most of us. That\u2019s why there are so many random YouTube music videos with a fireplace in the background. Light a fire in your hearth or outdoor firepit and snuggle up with a blanket and a good book, or invite friends over for a bonfire!<\/p>\n\n\n\n When you’re feeling down, turning your attention to someone who is in worse shape than you can be a rewarding and productive response. Take flowers to an elderly citizen in your local geriatric home. Send a care package to a friend who has been ill. Take a less wealthy friend out to lunch and foot the bill, or rake the leaves for your disabled neighbor. There is a myriad of ways to lend a helping hand. Pick one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you have a list on paper or in your mind, choose one goal that you can accomplish today, and put your mind to achieving it. Don\u2019t stop until you\u2019ve conquered it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pretty obvious one here. Sex reduces stress by releasing buckets of mood-altering hormones. It\u2019s free (hopefully), and it usually doesn\u2019t take too long either. It\u2019s an easy way to get a quick fix of happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your mind is consumed with worry for some reason, try distracting yourself with something mundane. Fold the laundry. Do a puzzle. Clean out a cabinet, or move the furniture. Making your brain focus on something spatial can be a healthy distraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pull out the old photo albums and show your kids your puffy prom dress. Reminisce with your spouse over your wedding day, or text your bestie pics of that epic trip to the cape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Just moving the furniture around a bit and splashing a fun color on the wall can liven up your home and your mood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Speaking of changing your surroundings, sometimes a stay in an incredible luxury suite, especially one with a hot tub and a view is worth every penny!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Doing something that scares you a bit produces adrenaline at the moment, but there is a serene calm and sense of accomplishment once it is all over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let out your inner child and relish in some fond memories by hitting up the vintage games at the arcade. Watching Pac-Man nom nom on those little dots is so dang rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is no shame in a good cry. Have one every now and then. You might find you feel an immense sense of release afterward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Get out some aggression with a contact sport. Use the boxing bag at the gym, join a sparring club, or start a martial arts class. Yes, we just suggested you join a fight club, but we can\u2019t talk about it anymore. Shh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Go outside and scream. Do it loud, at the absolute top of your lungs. Do it until you feel better. It sounds ridiculous, but it\u2019s crazy soothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Coloring isn\u2019t just a way to keep your kids quiet. It can help keep your own thoughts from raging, too. Grab a swirly adult coloring book at your craft store and get busy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Everyone gets the funk every now and again. It\u2019s normal, human nature. We recommend you save this list and try a few of these tips next time you feel a little down. Some may work wonders for you, and others won\u2019t be your jam. That\u2019s okay. Try until you find the option that fits you best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember, these are quick mood-boosting activities for the occasional bad day. If you are consistently having anxiety and depressive symptoms, it\u2019s time to talk to a medical professional for some help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A romantic date can be a fantastic cure for a bad mood. Check out our list of \u201c50 Romantically Sweet Spring Date Ideas<\/a>\u201d for some inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your kiddos are the primary joy in your life, then celebrate their awesomeness with an adventure from \u201c31 Exciting Ways to Celebrate Spring With Your Kids<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are looking for some fun mood-boosting activities<\/a>, try doing something that scares you<\/a>, going on a guided urban art walk<\/a>, or hitting up a rock-climbing wall<\/a>!<\/p> <\/div> If you need a quick fix for anxiety, take a minute for a deep breathing exercise<\/a>, pull out an adult coloring book<\/a>, redecorate a room<\/a> in your home, or go for a spa treatment<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> While each person is different, some of the tried and true mood boosters are taking a cold-water swim<\/a>, partaking in aggressive exercise<\/a>, or having a good sexual encounter<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> Serious depression should be treated by a medical doctor, but if you’re just in a bad mood today, try going on a nature walk<\/a>, taking an art class<\/a>, or spending the day volunteering<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> If you have a loved one who is feeling down, take them out for a fun day of exploring on a city scavenger hunt<\/a>, go on a road trip<\/a> together, or set up a spa day<\/a> for a little pampering!<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" If you are feeling a bit on the blue side today, pick a few of these awesome mood-boosting activities to get back on the happy track!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":11901,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[290,289],"tags":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n2. Sightseeing Scavenger Hunt<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Urban Art Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Planning A Trip<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Nature Walk<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Cold Water Swim<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Game Night<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Family Member Phone Call<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. Farmer\u2019s Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Orchard Visit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Petting Zoo<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Volunteer Day<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Charity Race<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. Gardening<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
15. Gratitude Journal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. Weekend Road Trip<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Hammock Nap<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. Romantic Comedy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19. Light-Hearted Read<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. Long Hug<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
21. Deep Breathing Exercises<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
22. Wildflower Picking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
23. Playground Visit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
24. Bike Ride<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
25. Bar Crawl<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
26. Fancy Night Out<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
27. Spa Treatment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
28. Dip in the Hot Tub<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
29. Impromptu Dance Session<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
30. Rock Climbing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
31. Trampoline Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
32. Lake Day<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
33. Art Class<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
34. Woodworking<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
35. Spiritual Care<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
36. Counseling Session<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
37. Free Writing<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
38. Cleaning Day<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
39. Dancing Flames<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
40. Spreading the Love<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
41. Goal Achievement<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
42. Sex<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
43. Productive Distraction<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
44. Jaunt Down Memory Lane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
45. Redecorating<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
46. Luxury Hotel<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
47. Scary Feat<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
48. Arcade Day<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
49. Good Cry Session<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
50. Aggressive Exercise<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
51. Outburst<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
52. Adult Coloring Book<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAre you ready to decompress?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n