We all have periods in our lives when we feel down or mildly depressed, especially at festive times, like Christmas. These feelings can be due to anything from personal problems or business hassles to weather conditions. When they are short-lived and infrequent, the following can help boost our mood and general outlook.

<B>1. Socialize and think positive!</B>

When we are feeling blue or depressed, often the LAST thing we want is to socialize. However, if we choose to stay alone, we will focus on what has caused our depression in the first place! If we force ourself to call a friend and meet for coffee, a movie, walk or anything to get out have a change of atmosphere, the chances are that it will change our mood for the better. We are what we THINK. Our thoughts can propel us into ecstasy or into the depths of the blues. And MOST of us have control over them. We can ALWAYS choose thoughts, actions, etc.

<B>2. Do something just for YOURSELF!</B>

Be utterly selfish. Think of something for yourself… a manicure, haircut, the shoes you have been wanting. It does not have to be costly. You are just being GOOD to yourself and a part of your Self will say, “Gee, I deserve this and things are not so bad after all.” This might not solve what caused you to feel blue, but it will make you feel better long enough to put things in a different perspective or not take them as seriously!

<B>3. Give something to another person</B>

One of the best ways to get beyond our own physical and emotional Self is to find something bigger than our own problems upon which to concentrate! You can think about your friends, relatives, poor people, or charitable institutions. Pick a person or cause that appeals to you and give to that person or cause. It can be time, money or whatever. Giving makes MOST people feel good. The gift may be small but the thought is all. You WILL feel better!

<B>4. Rent or see a happy/funny movie</B>

Laughter is an effective panacea for ills of all kinds. When we laugh, we force our minds to change mode, be UP, not depressed. We substitute our thoughts and feelings for those on the screen. Watching an hour-long comedy where we laugh and take our minds off our daily problems can last for hours or days as far as reducing chronic pain, a blue mood feeling, etc. It is cheap, easy, and, if we allow it to be - FUN!

<B>5. Volunteer your time</B>

One of the best ways to stop concentrating on our aches and pains, is by helping others with problems of their own… often much more severe. It is very humbling to take a walk through rehabilitation centres when we are feeling low due to a slight physical problem. Most of those we see are FAR worse off, yet they are working, smiling and talking… trying to do what they can to make the best of their situation. Giving time to others is a very good way to get out of our situation. Giving will come back to us many times over in positive ways if we just try it.

<B>6. Leave the past & get into the present</B>

Most bad moods and mental attitudes are the result of what has happened to us in the PAST - the recent past or long ago. It is vital to our body, energy and Life to stay in the PRESENT with our thoughts and feelings. The past is over! Hanging onto old hurts, pains, anger, etc, will harm us emotionally and physically over time. We can CHOOSE to focus on creating a positive and healthy present, or dwell in the past, creating anxiety, depressed moods, anger, guilt, etc. Let old hurts and pains and anger go! This will free up positive energy and your body and mind will have a chance to be MUCH healthier!

<B>7. Walk or “shop walk” to cheer up</B>

Walking is prescribed by many doctors to help the depressed. Maybe your finances are what has you down in the dumps. If this is the case, drive to the nearest shopping centre and walk just looking in the windows. Buy an “Orange Julius” or soda, sit on a bench and watch people and children. REALIZE that EVERY person you see has their own problems, and days when THEY are blue or down. You are NOT alone. Life will go on… things can get better; you must choose to help MAKE them better, however.

<B>8. Call a “positive” person you like and chat</B>

This option is all right as long as you do not dump on your friend and do not abuse him or her. The idea is to get OUT of yourself, hear about someone else’s life and take your mind off your own stuff for a while. It’s OK to let them know you are feeling a bit low and, if they ask, you can tell them BRIEFLY what is going on. Just dont make it a long whining monologue! Ask them about THEIR own life, job and family. If they are someone you see on and off, offer to get together for lunch, tea, a movie, sometime soon. The more you talk or listen to things other than your OWN situation, the better the chances are your mood will lift and youll feel better after the call.

<B>9. Meditate or listen to relaxation or tapes</B>

Meditation can be a very good way to change your mood. It works whether you are depressed/down or anxious/hyper. Take a course or get good quality tapes, which teach meditation. It is amazing what it can do to calm anxiety AND depression.

<B>10. Be CREATIVE!</B>

Creating things alters our mood. It shifts us from the right side of our brain to the left side. It can be through cooking, painting! It is also “creating” to play music if you can. Play what you wish as loud or as soft as you wish. Whatever type of music makes you feel good….play it or create it. It WILL better your mood if you just allow it and concentrate on forgetting how you have been “feeling.”