Suggestions to help improve your mood Part I

IF FEELINGS OF ANXIETY OR SADNESS REGULARLY CAUSE PROBLEMS AT WORK OR HOME, TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT THEM!!!!!! (1) REACH OUT If you have a close friend nearby, meet for a walk. Make a call if they are far away. You can feel supported and less stressed by talking with someone you care about. Research shows, along with lifting your mood, reaching out can strengthen your immune system. Your body is better at fighting illness and it is good for your heart also. (2) DARK CHOCOLATE It has chemicals called flavanols. Flavanols can make blood flow to your brain and may help you think more clearly. Have a small square 2 to 3 times a week. Make sure it is 70% cocoa or more. (3) MUSIC Music can affect your brain the way sex or chocolate does. Your brain makes natural painkillers when you sing along. This can boost your mood. (4) LAUGH Laughing can ease tension in your muscles. Also, when you breathe in quickly your heart and lungs get a boost. Laughing makes your brain release chemicals that help your body fight infection and pain. (5) GOOD DEEDS Your body makes hormones called endorphins when you do something nice for someone, Endorphins are natural painkillers linked to pleasure, trust, and a connection to other people. It has been shown helping others raises your self-esteem. (6) HUG YOUR PET You feel better just being around your pet. A hormone called oxytocin is released that lifts your mood and bonds you to living things. (7) WATER You can feel tired or cranky when your body needs water. Your mental sharpness may even be affected. Vegetables and fruits are good sources too.