by Pamela Gentry

Created on: May 17, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Well I guess that's why they call it the blues. Everyone feels blue for one reason or another during the seasons of life. Good days and bad days, come and go. Your life does not have to be problem free in order for you to be happy. Here are ten ways to cheer yourself up when you are feeling blue.

HALT

Remember this simple acronym: HALT. Are you hungry, angry, lonely or tired? You will not be operating at your best if you are any of these things. Take care of these basic needs and see how you feel after that.

Get Outside

Many people suffer from depression in the wintertime, or after days or weeks of rainy weather.

Ground yourself by taking off your shoes and standing barefoot in the grass. Now take a deep breath and feel your connection with the earth. Realize that everything happens in its own perfect season.

Write It Down

A great way to get negative feelings away from you is to write them down. Write in a journal, write on a piece of scrap paper; it doesn't really matter. Get to the bottom of what is really bothering you. If there is something you need to express to another person, writing it down will help make sure that you don't say something that you wish you hadn't.

Connect with Your Spirit

You may also choose to pray about your situation, and ask that the anxiety or sadness surrounding it would be absolved. If you do choose to pray, why not focus on the best possible outcome by praying for the true desires of your heart.

You might also choose meditation as a way to connect with your inner spirit. Meditation helps create a clearer and more focused mind and will help calm your frazzled nerves. Be still and focus on your breathing, and simply learn to let it be.

Express Yourself Artistically

Do you enjoy painting, writing or singing? What other outlets do you have for expressing your emotions? Move through your sadness by expressing it in a way that is artistic and creative. Some of the greatest masterpieces throughout history have been created during times of great turmoil and strife.

Pay It Forward

Sometimes the easiest way for you to feel better is to make someone else feel better. What goes around truly does come around. There is always something that you can do to brighten someone else's day. Kindness is contagious. Feel better by helping someone in need.

Get Moving

It has been medically proven that exercise is a natural mood lifter. Why not take a brisk walk outside and get your blood pumping? This is a great way to burn off nervous energy.

Listen to Uplifting Music

Most of us have a few favorite songs that we enjoy singing at the top of our lungs. Why not get on You Tube and type in your favorite mood-lifting song? Need a few suggestions? Think along the lines of the song, "Lean on Me," or perhaps the song "Red, Red Wine," would be appropriate? Think of the happy times that you have enjoyed. What does the soundtrack of your life sound like?

Spend Time with a Friend

Do you have a friend or family member that always seems to make you smile? Why not let some of their good cheer rub off on you by spending time in their company. Be sure and avoid spending time with people who enjoy gossiping or complaining, as this is negative energy that you don't need.

Refocus Your Attention

When you learn to switch your focus away from worries or concerns that you may have within your mind, and focus on the positive aspects and blessings within your life, you will be well on your way to becoming a happier individual, no matter what circumstances you may be facing. Be thankful for this day that you have been given, and for all of the people who love you, and for every blessing that comes your way.

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