It’s not uncommon for most people to experience a mood dip every once in a while. But have you ever wondered the cause? The reasons can vary widely - not getting enough sleep, too much stress, hormone changes, low blood sugar or even caffeine intake can all contribute.

The good news is that there are many easy and natural ways to give your disposition a boost when needed.

Ways to Improve Your Mood

If you’re looking for how best to shift your outlook, consider the following five suggestions:

1. Get moving
   You know physical exercise can keep your body healthy, but did you know it’s one of the top things you can do for your brain and emotional health, as well? And you don’t have to participate in strenuous activities to reap the benefits. Simply adding more natural movement into your daily routine can also be a great mood-booster.
   
   According to a Harvard Medical School publication, research has found a 26% decrease in the risk of becoming depressed for those who have increased their daily physical activity, such as replacing 15 minutes of sitting with 15 minutes of brisk walking.
   
   Try this: Take a walk or join others in playing a sports game. Strive for 15 minutes a day of higher-intensity exercise such as running or one hour of lower-intensity exercise like walking or even housework. Remember, even small movements add up. 
   
   
2. Eat well
   Although we’re often tempted to reach for comfort food when we’re feeling a little down or stressed, it’s not really the best choice. Your brain requires fuel to function properly, which ultimately affects your mood. When your diet is filled with refined sugars or processed foods, they can sap your energy, taking a toll on how you feel. A brain-healthy diet can be great support for your mood and mental health.
   
   Try this: Pay attention to how different foods make you feel – immediately after a meal and even into the next day. Eliminate all processed foods and sugar for two to three weeks. Many people notice how much better they feel, and when they reintroduce those foods, how their moods actually change.
   
   
3. Socialize
   Have you ever noticed how your mood lifts just by being around other people? Whether having lunch with your best friend or taking your grandchildren to the park, the activity itself doesn’t really matter. It’s the social interaction that can be a great mood lifter.
   
   Research has discovered people experience an increase in feelings of well-being as well as a decrease in depression when they are around others. Having strong relationships in your life can also influence your physical health as well.
   
   Try this: Stay in contact with family and friends, sign up for a class or join an organization that provides opportunities to interact with others. Babysitting your grandchildren, volunteering for your favorite charity, or participating in a community group are a few additional ideas to try.
   
   
4. Take care of yourself
   If you catch yourself thinking more negative thoughts than positive, it’s important to take action. Sometimes all we need is a gentle nudge or an interruption to our inner voice to realize it's time to change our attitude.
   
   Managing stress and getting enough sleep are also great contributors to your mood. It’s hard to start the day on a positive note if you tossed and turned all night or are living with a high level of anxiety.
   
   Try this: Keep a gratitude journal to jot down the joyful moments in life. Also, a focus on helping others can be a positive mood changer for many. Creating a regular sleep routine can also give your body and mind the healing and restorative rest it needs.
   
   
5. Find your purpose
   It’s hard not to be optimistic about the future if you’re living a life of purpose and meaning. Discovering your passions or interests, and creating opportunities to experience them, contributes to a more positive daily outlook.
   
   Research has found that having a sense of meaning can have a great impact on one’s mental health, and may lead to fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.
   
   Try this: Take some time to contemplate what brings the most meaning to your life. Are your days filled with purpose? Have you discovered the activities that bring you the most joy? Once you’ve identified these features, look for opportunities to cultivate them.

If you need more help

If you feel that your poor mood is more significant than just having a bad day or that you might need more help, be sure and talk to your doctor about what is going on. There are many options available that you might not have previously considered.

How a senior living community can help improve your mood

A senior living community offers many opportunities to help you feel connected and engaged with others – a top contributor for having a positive outlook. Their advantages also extend to many of the features that play a significant role in helping you live a positive and purposeful life.

Consider these benefits:

• Support and encouragement for an independent and meaningful life
• Nutritious meals and diet options to support a healthy body and mind
• Opportunities for exercise and staying active
• Fun social events that encourage engagement with others
• Many opportunities to naturally meet and make new friends

Life at Eskaton Communities

The word Eskaton means “dawn of a new day.” In our communities, we see each day as an opportunity to enhance the lives of our residents. We’ve been serving the Sacramento region and Northern California for over 50 years.

The Eskaton Difference starts with our life-enriching programs and collaborative partnerships. With a national reputation for innovation, we focus on creating communities that provide our residents everything they need for purposeful living. We invite you to visit one of our award-winning communities to discover some of the benefits we offer, such as:

• Private residences
• Delicious and nutritious meals
• Social opportunities to meet and make new friends
• Creative activities and therapies
• Fitness centers and exercise classes
• Housekeeping services
• Transportation services
• 24-hour staffing
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi
• And much, much more!

If you’re considering whether community living could be the right choice for you, we’re here to answer any questions you may have. We also invite you to download our complimentary information, A Family Guide to Funding Senior Care & Housing. 

To schedule a personalized tour, call us at 1-866-ESKATON or (1-866-375-2866) or visit eskaton.org.