Seven Simple Pleasures to Boost Your Mood

“It isn’t the great big pleasures that count the most; it’s making a great deal out of the little ones.”
- Jean Webster
 
1. Frame a photograph that makes you laugh, even if it’s not the most “artistic” one in the photo album. Every time you see it, you’ll feel a burst of happiness.
 
2. Sit in the sun while the weather is still warm. Apply some sunscreen, take 15 minutes from your lunch break, close your eyes, and let those golden rays work their magic. It’s one of the best mood boosters there is — and a dose of Vitamin D, too!
 
3. Squeeze a few lemons to make real lemonade. The pure, delicious flavor is worth the effort. Here’s the easy recipe: 3 cups of water, I cup of lemon juice (about 5 lemons), ½ cup of sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and serve over ice. Mmmm!
 
4. Treat yourself to a bouquet of fresh flowers for instant cheer. Can’t afford to spend a lot of money? You don’t have to go to the florist. Many supermarkets have colorful bouquets of carnations for about $7.00, and if you change the water frequently, they can last up to a month!
 
5. Put on your favorite music and dance around the house. If you have kids around, this will be hilariously entertaining for them, too.
 
6. Write a letter to a friend—with an actual pen. It doesn’t have to be earth-shattering news, just a chatty little note. Not only will it make you happy, but the recipient will be delighted to receive a piece of mail that isn’t junk or a bill, and will tuck it into a drawer instead of hitting “delete.”
 
7. Compliment a stranger. Whether you note their appearance: “What beautiful earrings!” or the work they’re doing: “Thank you for doing such a good job,” this is instant gratification all around. Seeing the pleasure that you have bestowed on someone will automatically make you feel good, too.
 
“Beauty of style, and harmony, and grace depend on simplicity.”
  – Plato
 
About SJ Wilson
SJ Wilson  has been writing novels for many years, including the recently published, The Soul of Fenway. She loves spending time with her family, especially at the beach. Her hobbies include genealogy, photography, American history, and baseball.
 
Photo: jamjar