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Get Inspired for a Mood-Boost

You've seen them - those people who always seem to be looking up when everything else is crashing down. They have a distinct positivity that radiates from the inside out, as if nothing could ever get to them, but what is their secret? It's actually simpler than you might think. Although jumping on the upbeat bandwagon isn't an overnight process, taking baby steps on a daily basis will gradually lead to an overall happiness boost.

Give a Grin

Take the time to realize what makes you smile. According to the article "20 Simple Ways to Get Happy" from Reader's Digest, happiness is a state of mind. It is unpredictable and can be affected by everything from your eating habits to the stress in your life. However, a trick that helps squelch a patchy mood is to paint a smile on your face. Even if it feels like a cover-up at first, once you sink your teeth into it, so to speak, the expression will begin to take on a life of its own. In due time, your attitude won't be able to resist your cheerful expression.

Practice Mindfulness

To be mindful is to be present in the moment. Rather than racing your thoughts ahead to what test or paper you have due in a week, or whether you will have enough time to complete all of your assignments, or if you will ultimately fall behind, focus on the here and now. Let yourself unravel after a hectic day by freeing yourself from your own self. Instead of remaining bogged down, take in the sights and sounds around you. Don't hold onto any scraps of built-up tension. Take a deep breath, relax, and just be.

Bust a Move

Besides relieving stress through stillness, try working up a heartbeat with some hearty exercise. Don't just lounge around all day in that cute track suit; find out what it feels like to put your workout apparel to good use. According to Stress-Relief-Exercises.com, "When we physically exert ourselves, the body releases chemical substances called endorphins. These natural substances produced by our own bodies are free of side effects, except for making us feel good." Carolyn Steber, a Junior Journalism major at The College, is a workout-advocate. "I go for walks outside," Steber said. "The exercise and fresh air make me a lot happier."

Love to Laugh

One of the best ways to let go of your inhibitions is through laughter. If you often find yourself laughing so hard that it's difficult to stop, then you're one notch higher on the happiness-spectrum. Even just anticipating a happy or funny event can raise levels of endorphins and other pleasure-inducing hormones, and in turn, lower the production of negative stress hormones. By letting yourself absorb certain moments that are guaranteed laugh-inducers, a jovial disposition is easy to maintain. Imagine the funniest scene from one of your favorite comedy flicks (the movie Elf always puts a smile on my face) or a hilarious comment your friend recently said. Of course, if a silly musing comes to mind during one of your teacher's lectures or while studying in the library, be conscious of your uncontrollable outbursts. But besides that, don't hold back - laugh it up!

Catch some Zzz's

Unfortunately, reality isn't always humorous, especially in our chaotic college lives. After studying all day and partying all night, it can even be a challenge to find the time for some much-needed shut-eye. However, sleep is a key factor in increasing your overall happiness since it's both physically and mentally rejuvenating. On a night when you don't have a soiree to attend or a keg stand to support (if you are of age, of course), fluff up the pillows, pull down the covers, and take it easy with a good book. Going to bed early will not only improve your overall attitude, but you will feel less stressed and more alert the next day.

Soul Food

After renewing the body and mind, try focusing on the spirit. By giving back to people in the community or those who are less fortunate, it's like serving up some chicken soup for the soul. As your eyes open up to more real concerns through letting yourself be of service to others, your own apparent problems don't seem as bad as you originally perceived them to be. As noted in "20 Simple Ways," one study found that volunteer work enhanced all six aspects of well-being: happiness, life satisfaction, self-esteem, sense of control over life, physical health, and depression. So open up your hands and your heart, and spread some good karma by participating in volunteer work.

You-Time

Make sure you're not just giving to other people, but give to yourself too. Spending some time on your own to clear your head, blast your music or just let loose can completely transform your composure. Even though cultivating strong relationships are one of the best remedies for a negative slump, sometimes you need time alone to recharge and reflect. Experiment with what energy works for you - pull out your favorite CD (Bowling For Soup's song "Shut Up and Smile" does it for me) and crank up the volume!

Love and Sweetness

Once you've relished in some alone-time, make sure you take the time to enjoy the company of the people you love most. Surrounding yourself with familiar faces is a sure-fire way to boost a dreary mood. Molly Chase, a sophomore English major and Professional Writing minor at The College, turns to her friends for a smile, but she also likes to count on something a little bit sweeter, "Chocolate chip cookies and cookie dough ice-cream!!"

Whether it's a delectable indulgence, friends, family, or finding more time to focus on you, all you really need in the end is a little inspiration. Take it from the playful lyrics of my song-pick fav: "I know it sounds a little dumb (or maybe I'm a little drunk), but all we need is some ice cream and a hug."