Five quick mood boosters for slow, unmotivated days

There are days that feel somewhere between good and bad. During those times, you just want to hide away in your cozy home, put on a movie, and wrap yourself in a warm blanket. On such sluggish days, motivation disappears completely. But you can fix this and regain your energy with a few simple tricks.

Real Simple writes about it.

How to lift your mood

Go for a walk

The quickest way to boost your mood is to spend time outdoors. Psychologists note that even 20–30 minutes of walking is enough to lower stress and help you feel better. Choose quiet places where you can connect with nature — a park, a lake, or a forest.

Keep a gratitude journal

Make it a habit to write down things you're grateful for. On days when everything feels off, positive thoughts on paper can be a real lifeline. Revisit your journal whenever you feel apathetic or tired. This practice can improve mental health and ease anxiety.

Do something creative

On tough days, try engaging in something creative. It wakes up your brain and sparks inspiration. You don't need to be skilled at painting, sculpting, or writing poetry. Just allow yourself to express freely and try something fun and creative.

Get moving

Another reliable way to lift your mood is physical activity. Exercise helps you feel calmer and more grounded. You don't have to run a marathon or spend hours at the gym. Simple stretching, dancing, or yoga can do the trick.

Connect with loved ones

When you feel drained and unmotivated, spend time with people close to you. Meet a friend or family member. If meeting in person isn't possible, call or chat online. Either way, it's better than being alone.

Read more:

• How to boost your self-esteem — effective tips from psychologists
• Love isn't enough — the psychology behind strong relationships