by K. W. Callahan

Created on: May 18, 2009   Last Updated: July 26, 2009

Sometimes after a particularly rough day, or when you're just feeling a bit blah, you need something to get your battery jump-started. When it comes to turning a frown upside down, nearly everyone is different. There are a few tried and true techniques however, that will help make a crummy day into something more bearable, maybe even enjoyable, while lifting your spirits.

Flip on a flick - Make some popcorn, turn off the lights, grab a blanket and pillow, and settle in for some quality tube time. A favorite movie or television show can whisk you away to another time or place and break those stressful constraints of reality.

Take a soak - Sure, a warm bath is the old standby, but it works (otherwise it wouldn't be an old standby). Draw a toasty bubble bath, light a few candles, pour a choice drink, then slide in and let the water do the rest.

Snooze - A good long nap can work wonders when it comes to relieving stress and lifting your spirits. Taking a ride to dreamland can sooth your worried mind, and when you wake up from your trip to the land of nod, your troubles should feel far away.

Walk it off - Sometimes just getting outside for some fresh air and taking a leisurely walk can help clear your mind, body, and soul. Nature and the outdoors have a funny way of lifting your spirits and if you let them, and they can act as wonderful (not to mention cheap) therapy.

Reach out and touch someone - Getting in touch with a good friend, whether you do it in person, by way of phone, or through email or other tech-based source of communication, can be a wonderful boost to your low spirits and possibly theirs as well.

Hug it out - Sometimes all it takes is a little love to lift your spirits. A hug from a person you care about can do the trick and take you from down in the dumps to floating on top of the clouds.

Go out - Getting out of the house or spending some time away can take your mind off your troubles. Go out for a drink, have dinner, watch a movie, or whatever, just as long as it gets you out of the house and occupies your attention for an hour or so.

Read a book - Put on a little soft music, relax in your favorite chair, and drift off into the world of the written word. A good book can take you miles away from the problems of everyday life and can often do more to lift your spirits than an expensive night out on the town or a deep tissue massage ever could.

Donate to a charity - Donating to a charity can be a wonderful way to rediscover just how fortunate you really are. Helping those in need can lift your spirits and work wonders for your ego.

A trip down memory lane - Sitting down with scrapbooks, photo albums, family movies, etc. can bring the feelings of joy and good times rushing back. Taking a trip down memory lane is a fantastic way to lift your spirits and lose yourself in the nostalgia of days gone by.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only. Any action taken by the reader due to the information provided in this article is at the reader's discretion.

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