Popsugar Health & Fitness Stress Relief Ways to Feel Happier 9 Ways to Feel Happier and Fight Stress 29 January 2018 by Dominique Michelle Astorino Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Diggy Lloyd Whether it's the Winter blues or you're just in a slump, we all go through emotional ups and downs. It's OK! We don't always feel joyful all the time. But when you're ready to kick that sadness to the curb and pick yourself back up, these quick, easy, and free techniques will help put a smile on your face. Now let's get happy! Work It Out Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim Sweat out stress, and amp up endorphins! Exercise of all kinds is a quick and efficient way to give yourself an instant mood boost. Whether it's a quick at-home workout, a run, a yoga session, or a trip to your favorite boutique studio, it's a guaranteed way to lift your spirits. 1 / 9 Get Outside Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim Breathe in some fresh air, and give yourself a break by going outside. Not only can the sunshine and a bit of nature give you a sense of calm, but sunlight can help you with weight loss as well. 2 / 9 Connect With Loved Ones Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim Stress getting the best of you? Take a break from the hustle and bustle, and take some one-on-one time with a loved one. Whether it's a parent, child, sibling, best friend, or significant other, some quality time can leave you feeling rejuvenated. 3 / 9 Treat Yourself Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Diggy Lloyd Self-care should be a priority, and sometimes that means just eating the chocolate croissant and scheduling the massage. Find a treat — whether it's a treatment, an experience, or a food — that you've been putting off, and take the plunge. You won't regret it. 4 / 9 Go For a Walk Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim Get your blood flowing! A little circulation can improve your mood, as can the fresh air (see tip #2). 5 / 9 Meditate Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim Alleviate stress, and find your center. When the world is whirling around you and you can't keep up, turn off, take a beat, and meditate. Find a cozy corner, maybe brew up some tea or light some candles, and use a meditation app to guide you through a few minutes (or more!) of peaceful bliss. 6 / 9 Disconnect Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim It's time to unplug! Too much screen time can be a source of anxiety and unhappiness. Grab a book or a gratitude journal, and spend some time away from the rest of the world. 7 / 9 Make Some Fresh Food Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim A fresh, delicious, and nourishing meal might be the perfect way to put a smile on your face. Treat yourself and your body to something fueling that makes you feel great — bonus points if you use stress-reducing ingredients. 8 / 9 Sleep In Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim If you've been feeling crummy, your body might be telling you to catch up on rest. Sleep is the foundation of stress management and a good mood, so carve out a couple extra hours for some solid ZZZs. Related: Try This Anti-Anxiety Bedtime Routine to Get Some Peaceful Sleep 9 / 9 Stress ReliefHealthy LivingHappinessSpringCuteValentine's DayParentingHairBreakfastRunning