Mood Boosters

Natural ways to lift your spirits

By Tracy Needham

 

Adding more joy to your everyday life is easy - and inexpensive. Here are three natural ways to boost your mood and improve your health.

 

Indulge in heart-healthy chocolate

Most of us believe that chocolate contains a magical something to lift our spirits, but researchers have yet to find the proof. Instead, they believe we're responding to chocolate's creamy taste and melt-in-your-mouth sensation - and our own positive associations with them.

 

However, the health benefits that they've found are cause for celebration. Like tea and red wine, chocolate is packed with high-quality antioxidants that may reduce the risk of developing cancer and heart disease. Studies have also shown that the antioxidants in dark chocolate and cocoa powder may increase your good (HDL) cholesterol levels by up to 10%. Additionally, chocolate is rich in nutrients such as magnesium and iron. (Remember that eating too much can lead to problems like obesity and diabetes, so moderation is key.)

 

Exercise your way to happiness

Exercise has been proven to release mood-boosting chemicals in the body. In fact, a study at Duke University Medical Center found it to be just as effective as medication in alleviating depression. Furthermore, those who continued to exercise 10 months after the study maintained their results and had lower relapse rates than those who just took antidepressants.

 

Dr. Cedric Bryant, chief exercise physiologist for the American Council on Exercise^®, says, "Exercise produces a natural high in different parts of the body. We used to think that it just triggered feel-good endorphins, but now we're finding that it works on so many other levels as well - releasing mood-related neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, as well as controlling stress hormones such as cortisol." Of course, the physical results of exercise can certainly boost your self-esteem as well.

 

Laughter is the best medicine

Studies have shown that a good chuckle is like a one-two punch. It acts as a safety valve that stops the flow of stress hormones, especially those that constrict blood vessels and suppress immune activity, while boosting the level of disease-fighting cells and antibodies in the body. Some doctors have started prescribing laughter therapy to patients diagnosed with serious illnesses, teaching them how to cope in difficult situations by using humor.

 

Saranne Rothberg, founder of the non-profit ComedyCures^® Foundation, discovered the therapeutic effects of humor during her battle with cancer. She recommends stashing cartoons, printouts from funny web sites, books and DVDs of your favorite comics around the house and office. "Like exercise," she says, "nurturing that funny bone takes conditioning."

 

The next time you need a quick pick-me-up, consider one of these invigorating suggestions. Better yet, consider all three. "My idea of bliss would be sitting down after a kickboxing class with a box of chocolates and watching The Best of Bill Cosby," Rothberg proclaims. "It just doesn't get any better than that."

 

The contents of this publication are for general informational purposes only and are not to be a substitute for professional care. Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read in this publication. Before starting any exercise program, you should consult a physician.