Did you know that May is national mental health month? That said, it is so important now more than ever to take care of your mental and emotional health.

During these challenging times, maybe you've found yourself feeling frustrated, anxious, or lonely from being cooped up. Personally, I've been riding a wave of emotions during these times, so I want you to know that you're not alone and your feelings are valid. We are social beings and human connection is just as important to our mental health and wellbeing as is diet, movement, sleep, and stress management. 

So without further ado here are 6 quick and simple mood boosting activities:

1. Nature. Spending time in nature can work wonders when it comes to boosting your mood and feeding your soul. Breathing fresh air can raise levels of oxygen in your brain, which in turn boosts the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that alters your mood. Sunshine can provide a nature source of Vitamin D which is a common vitamin deficiency. Even 5-10 minutes can help you hit that reset button and shift your mood.

2. Laughter. Did you know that there are things called laughter clubs? Laughter is one of the best forms of medicine that is proven to boost your mood. So surround yourself with people that have a good sense of humor to share a few belly laughs, watch comedies (you can find me re-watching the Office), or hop on the internet and search some funny youtube videos to get your laugh on.

3. Meditation. Meditation is beneficial in both improving mood and calming the nervous system. Studies show that even just 10 minutes of meditation can help reduce episodes of mind wandering, especially for people who report high levels of emotional stress or anxiety.

There are tons of free meditation resources available these days. One of my favorite free meditation apps is insight timer, and my favorite book for learning meditation or finding more bliss in your existing meditation practice is Bliss More: How to Succeed in Meditation Without Really Trying by Light Watkins. I HIGHLY recommend this book -- personally, it helped me establish a dedicated and consistent meditation practice.

4. Play. As adults it can be really easy to take life seriously. That said, inviting a sense of play into your life can shift your mood. Play and act silly with your kids, grandchildren, pets, or invite a sense of play into your yoga practice!

5. Music. Music is an essential part of the human experience. Studies even show that upbeat music can lift your mood, boost happiness, and reduce anxiety. Putting on your favorite song or playlist can take your mind out of the vicious cycle of regret, worry, or fear, and help you to refocus our attention on the sound and rhythm of the song, even if just for a short while.

So gather some of your favorite tunes and create a mood boosting playlist that you can turn to when you need a boost or check out Spotify's pre-made mood boosting playlist here, or my upbeat yoga playlists here. 

6. Dance. There's nothing like letting loose and moving your body freely to the rhythm of your soul or favorite music. That said, dancing is a form of movement that can have a positive affect your mental and emotional health by reducing stress, decreasing the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and boosting your self-esteem.

The best part is that dancing is inclusive! It doesn't matter what your moves look like or how old you are. If you can move, you can dance. So next time you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or down, turn on some of your favorite upbeat music, close your eyes, and get your groove on.