9 easy ways to instantly feel happier a rainy day, say the experts

These advice approved by experts will bring the sun to the darkest days.


If you notice your mood damping While the clouds converge, you are not alone. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research , it is common that people report feelings of depression rainy days. However, weather forecasts should not seal your spell - experts say that there are many ways to increase your mood when the sun is nowhere in sight. Wondering where to start? Read the rest to learn nine easy ways to feel happier when time makes you fall, according to mental health experts.

In relation: 8 affirmations to feel ridiculously happy every day retired .

1
Try light therapy.

Woman getting light therapy for her seasonal depression
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If you suffer from a seasonal emotional disorder (sad), or if you notice that rainy days do not exactly arouse joy, the use of light therapy can help stimulate your mood.

Julia Baum , MSED, BFA, LMHC, therapist and owner of Julia Baum therapy , recommends trying a sad lamp, which can have a positive impact on the production of melatonin and serotonin by your body.

"Light therapy is accessible at home, and using it for only 10 to 15 minutes can increase your mood and your energy levels," explains Baum Better life , noting that these lamps can easily be purchased online. Use your lamp early during the day rather than during evening hours to avoid disturbing your sleep, she recommends.

2
Enter a state of flow.

woman journaling in bed
Dropout

Another way of instantly feeling happier a rainy day is to embark on a state of flow hobby Or personal interest, says Baum.

"A state of flow is when you concentrately focus and fully engage in your actions. It seems that you are in a rhythm and that you can be both energizing and soothing," she explains. "Certain measures that can help enter a flow state are writing, cleaning and crafts. Often, there is a repetitive nature or rhythm to activity, which helps enter the area . "

Washing 'N. Dorsey , LCSW, advisor, therapist and motivator lecturer with Washing 'N. Dorsey & Associates , should that these types of creative activities are ideal for covered days.

"The rainy days can trigger your creativity. Try activities such as drawing, painting, writing or crafts," she suggests. "Getting involved in creative activities can stimulate your mood and give a feeling of accomplishment."

In relation: 8 ways to motivate you to take a daily walk .

3
Offer personal care.

Three mature happy women with face masks at home.
Dragana Gordic / Shutterstock

Spending a rainy day taking care of your self-care needs can make you instantly happier, explains Dorsey. "Use the day of rain as an opportunity to piss you off. Take a long and relaxing bath, make a facial mask or practice other personal care activities that make you feel good," she advises.

According to Andrea Marano , LCSW, a New York therapist based , personal care does not have to take the form of self -esteem - it can be as simple as enjoying a rest without an excuse.

"There is so much pressure to" play "at your outing of a rainy day. If you find that you spend more time ruminating the pressure and sitting in a shame spiral for your lack of productivity, today Hui is the day to look into a restless and restorative rest, "she shares. "Make your only concentration to give you the most nourishing, cleaning and filling the soul you can - and loving every minute."

Connected: 6 advantages for mental health of listening to audio books .

4
Catch with friends and loved ones.

Istock / Jovanmandic

On brilliant and sunny days, you are more likely to adopt a great outdoor activity. However, experts say that rainy days have an opportunity to connect with friends in a more intimate setting - and that this can help improve your mood.

Dorsey recommends contacting friends or family members and organizing a comfortable indoor meeting place. If it is not possible, try a telephone call or a video call. "Social connections can have a positive impact on your mood, even if it's virtual," she notes.

"Sharing your life can be cathartic, and listen to and support a friend can be significant and fulfilling," adds Baum.

5
Find ways to laugh.

better parent over 40
Dropout

Laughter is the best medication, especially a rainy day. In addition to connecting with dear beings who do you good, you can also like to watch a funny movie or a special stand-up, explains Baum. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

"Rain days are perfect for watching your favorite movies or television shows. Choose something light and pleasant to cheer up," says Dorsey.

In relation: 8 indoor plants that improve your mental health, says science .

6
Move your body.

When workouts get too strenuous, the number of infection-fighting white blood cells in your body can go down. At the same time, your stress hormone cortisol may go up, which may interfere with the ability of certain immune cells to work right.
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Exercise is one of the best things you can do to stimulate your mood for a rainy day - or any day.

"Exercise is a natural antidepressant. Whether you want to go out and brave the rain or stay inside, move your body for 30 to 60 minutes," says Baum.

Are you looking for something you can do inside until the rain passes? Try to make a training video, yoga, a jump rope or weights to lift.

7
Practice mindfulness and meditation.

Woman meditating on a mat.
Fizkes / Shutterstock

Studies have shown that mindfulness meditation Can improve mood considerably, making it an excellent tool to feel better bad weather.

"Rain days can encourage you to slow down and be present in the moment. Try mindfulness or meditation exercises to connect with your thoughts and feelings, by reducing stress and anxiety," suggests Dorsey.

In fact, the therapist notes that rainy days offer a unique relaxing backdrop for your mindfulness meditation. "The noise of the rain can be incredibly soothing," she notes.

In relation: 5 morning stretches that will instantly increase your energy, say the experts .

8
Consider the things you have pushed back.

older couple cleaning kitchen
Lightfield / Shutterstock studios

A rainy day can also be an ideal opportunity to devote your full attention to something that has suspended you - and finishing such a chore can bring you joy and a feeling of accomplishment after the fact.

"Think of a task that you have rejected that really has a daily impact. Is it your overflowing closet? This dreaded chair chair that must be present? No grocery store in the refrigerator for a few days? Make this appointment? Anyway, attacking it today is a gift to your future me who continues to give, "explains Marano.

"It is not very fun in the moment, but the relief and satisfaction of reheating your task list is unbeatable!" Accepts Baum.

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9
Cook or cook something from scratch.

Asian senior couple cooking in kitchen
Kiwis / Istock

Any new, stimulating and creative activity is perfectly ready to make you happier a rainy day, but there is something particularly restorative to cook yourself or your family a nourishing meal, explains Marano.

Brandon Santan , PHD, LPC-MHSP, advisor and coach with Counseling ThrivePoint , suggests that cooking or cooking can also help you look in your senses, which can help lift your mood. "The aroma of freshly bulled products or a delicious meal can add to the comfortable atmosphere," he says.


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