by Deborah Nies

Created on: May 16, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

It happens to all of us at one time or another. It's been a tough day, nothing has gone right, and you're feeling blue. There are many ways to give yourself a little pick-me-up and they won't cost a dime.

#1 Lean on Me: Find a Friend. There's some truth in that old adage, "Misery loves company." Phone or visit with a supportive friend. Sharing disappointment a loved lightens the load on your shoulders.

#2 Get Outside: It's easy to slip into a funk when it's gloomy outside. But when the sun is shining, that is Mother Nature enticing you to come outside and soak up some rays! Our bodies require a daily dose of Vitamin D or we experience mood deflation. Run barefoot through the grass, listen to the birds singing in the trees, and just close your eyes and breathe.

#3 Me, Me, Me: In the rush of daily life and taking care of others, we often forget to take care of ourselves. Treat yourself gently. Give yourself a manicure or a pedicure while listening to your favorite music. Play upbeat tunes to lift your heart and soul. Sing it loud and proud!

#4 Move it, Move it: Exercise causes our brain to release natural chemicals that reduce depression and anxiety. Studies have proven that people feel happier and more relaxed following exercise. So, if you've been using your elliptical machine as a clothes hanger, now is the time to de-clutter it and jump on! Besides the mood elevation, there's the additional benefit of better health.

#5 Your Inner Child: Spend time with a child. Children remind us to enjoy the right-now moments and the simple pleasures. Forget your outer adult for a minute, and jump in the puddles. Be silly.

#6 Be Grateful: Keep a gratitude journal. Write an entry every day of things, people, and events, that you are thankful for, no matter how big or small. Focus on the positive. For example, "Today, I am grateful for dandelion bouquet that I received from my daughter, Hannah." This daily happiness log will be an excellent reference book when the blues strike in the future.

#7 Snuggle a Furry Friend: Play with a puppy or a kitten. Their mischievous antics and free abandon will delight you. Additionally, besides the emotional benefit, cuddling and petting animals has been shown to reduce high blood pressure.

#8 Crack a Book: Brew a cup your favorite beverage and curl up with a good book. Sometimes a brief escape from reality into the pages of a whodunit or a comedy is just what the doctor ordered. It is impossible to wallow in the day's depressing minutiae, if your mind is enthralled with the latest James Patterson novel.

#9 Help Others: Volunteer. Find a cause that you believe in and immerse yourself. Whether it's a homeless shelter or an animal shelter, it's hard to be blue when you are helping others.

#10 Laughter IS the best medicine: Spend time with a funny friend or watch your favorite movie comedies on DVD. Laughter increases endorphins and antibodies in your body and reduces stress. Giggle, chortle and guffaw your way to a cheerier you!

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