The other night, Toby and I strolled home from the grocery store when he sighed, “Mom, it’s so dark and cold.” And he was right. So, I replied, “What if we look at it differently? It’s dark and cold and cozy, which means we can go home, snuggle under blankets, and watch America’s Got Talent?” Toby lit up, and we both instantly felt uplifted. Here are seven things we’re enjoying as the temperatures drop…
Stepping on crunchy leaves during a walk. What is it about crushing crispy leaves underfoot that feels so satisfying??? I enjoy wandering through our neighborhood, either listening to a moody playlist or sharing exciting stories with friends. (This is the vibe we aim for.)
Sporting a beloved sweater. Isn’t this popcorn sweater gorgeous? I’ve been pairing it with jeans on crisp days, and I adore the warmth of the burnt orange hue. The blend of merino wool and cotton is incredibly soft, and it garners so many compliments.
Making muffins with a crumble topping. Last week, we baked Dan Pelosi’s pumpkin cardamom recipe, and let me tell you, these muffins were MOIST… They’re genuinely delightful, I highly recommend them.
Watching a new TV series. Somehow I overlooked The Sopranos from 1999 to 2007, but I’m catching up now and bingeing through it. I love all the intricate characters — Carmela has my heart — and the dialogues are so humorous that I find myself chuckling in nearly every scene.
Tuning in to America’s Got Talent with my kids. If you’re in search of a family-friendly show, I recommend AGT. My boys are FANS of watching the contestants nervously step onto the stage, gather their courage, and captivate the audience. Of course, there are also those who leave much to be desired. As Anton put it, “Not gonna lie, I feel bad for the lacking performers but also…they’re lacking!” Nothing truer.
Diving into a new book. This morning, I came across Pandora Sykes’s review of Laurie Colwin’s 1986 novel, Another Marvelous Thing, which revolves around a couple engaged in an affair. Pandora writes: “I’ve never encountered someone describing an affair quite like Colwin does. The clarity is almost purifying.” Here’s a notable line from the male character in the story: “She is an undeniable fact of my life. When not at work, and when not with her, my thoughts rest upon the subject of her as effortlessly as you might place a hand on a child’s head.” I generally don’t endorse affairs, but those lines sure sound romantic.
Voting ahead of time. And keeping my fingers crossed super tightly.
What about you? Share what treasures you’re enjoying this fall!
P.S. A very laid-back fall checklist and a fall playlist for strolls/dinners/road trips.
Note: If you purchase something via our links, we may earn an affiliate commission or have a sponsored relationship with the brand, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely enjoy. Thank you!
**7 Effective Ways to Elevate Your Mood**
In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or down. Whether it stems from work challenges, personal issues, or simply the daily grind, our moods can change frequently. The silver lining is that there are straightforward, effective techniques to uplift your spirits and enhance your overall well-being. Here are seven effective strategies to elevate your mood:
### 1. **Engage in Regular Exercise**
Physical activity is one of the best ways to boost your mood. Exercising releases endorphins, which are often called “feel-good” hormones. These substances interact with brain receptors, lessening pain perception and stimulating positive feelings. Even a brief walk, a yoga session, or light stretching can significantly impact your mood.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Begin with 20-30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking, jogging, or cycling, at least three times a week.
– Opt for activities you enjoy, such as dancing, swimming, or hiking, to make it more enjoyable and sustainable.
– If time is tight, even a quick 10-minute session of physical activity can elevate your spirits.
### 2. **Embrace Mindfulness and Meditation**
Mindfulness and meditation serve as potent tools for reducing stress and enhancing emotional health. By concentrating on the present and releasing negative thoughts, you can alleviate anxiety and lift your mood. Research indicates that consistent mindfulness practice can boost happiness and diminish depression symptoms.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Dedicate 5-10 minutes daily for mindfulness or meditation practice. Apps like Headspace or Calm can assist you.
– Pay attention to your breathing, bodily sensations, or a chosen mantra to focus your thoughts.
– If traditional meditation feels challenging, try to incorporate mindfulness into activities like walking, eating, or dishwashing by concentrating entirely on the task.
### 3. **Prioritize Sufficient Sleep**
Getting enough sleep is crucial for emotional management and mental wellness. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, anxiety, or sadness. Conversely, enjoying a good night’s sleep can leave you feeling revitalized, energized, and more positive.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, based on your personal requirements.
– Develop a consistent sleep schedule by getting up and going to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends.
– Establish a calming pre-sleep routine that could involve reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques.
### 4. **Foster Social Connections**
As social beings, meaningful interactions can significantly affect our mood. Spending time with friends, family, or even pets can help lessen feelings of isolation and amplify feelings of joy and belonging.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Arrange regular meetings with friends or family, be it face-to-face, over the phone, or via video calls.
– Join clubs, groups, or activities that resonate with your interests to meet new people and broaden your social network.
– When you’re feeling low, reach out to a trusted individual for support.
### 5. **Maintain a Mood-Boosting Diet**
Your dietary choices can influence your emotional state. Certain foods are known for enhancing brain function and encouraging positive emotions. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon and walnuts), antioxidants (including berries and leafy greens), and complex carbohydrates (like whole grains) can help stabilize your mood.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
– Include healthy fat sources, like avocados, nuts, and seeds, which support brain health.
– Limit processed foods, sugary treats, and caffeine, as they can cause energy dips and mood fluctuations.
### 6. **Immerse Yourself in Nature**
Nature provides a soothing and rejuvenating influence on the mind. Research has revealed that spending time outside, notably in green areas, can lower stress, boost mood, and enhance feelings of well-being. Whether it’s walking in a park, hiking in the hills, or simply relaxing by the water, nature allows for mental rejuvenation.
**How to Incorporate It:**
– Take a brief outdoor stroll during your lunch break or after work.
– Plan weekend excursions to local parks, beaches, or natural reserves.
– If you’re unable to get outside, integrate nature into your indoor environment by adding plants to your home or workspace.
### 7. **Participate in Creative Pursuits**
Expressing creativity can be an effective outlet for emotions and a way to lift your spirits. Whether it’s painting, writing, playing an instrument, or crafting, creative activities offer an opportunity for self-expression, stress relief, and mood enhancement.
