After a long week of work and responsibilities, the weekend is supposed to be the perfect opportunity to recharge and lift your spirits.
Whether you’re feeling a bit low or simply want to make the most of your free time, there are plenty of little ways to give your mood a boost. Doing these things can really help you feel re-energised and ready to take on the week again come Monday (bleh!).
1. Create a cosy reading nook and lose yourself in a good book.
Transform a corner of your home into a comfortable reading space. Gather soft pillows, a warm blanket, and perhaps a scented candle to set the mood. Choose a book you’ve been meaning to read or revisit an old favourite. Immersing yourself in a story can provide a much-needed escape from daily stressors and stimulate your imagination. The act of creating a special space for this activity can also give you a sense of accomplishment and control over your environment.
2. Try your hand at a new recipe and enjoy the results.
Cooking can be a therapeutic and rewarding activity. Browse through cookbooks or online recipes to find something that piques your interest, preferably a dish you’ve never made before. The process of following instructions, measuring ingredients, and creating something delicious can be incredibly satisfying. Plus, the sense of achievement when you sit down to enjoy your homemade meal can significantly boost your mood. Don’t forget to savour each bite mindfully, appreciating the flavours and textures you’ve created.
3. Organise a mini home spa day for yourself.
Transform your bathroom into a relaxing, spa-like environment. Run a warm bath with essential oils or bath salts, light some candles, and play soothing music. Treat yourself to a face mask, give yourself a manicure, or try a new hairstyle. The combination of self-care activities and a calming atmosphere can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary for maintaining good mental health.
4. Plan and plant a small herb garden.
Source: Unsplash Gardening, even on a small scale, can be incredibly therapeutic. Choose a sunny windowsill or a small outdoor space and plan a herb garden. Select a few herbs you enjoy cooking with, such as basil, mint, or rosemary. The process of planting seeds or small plants, nurturing them, and watching them grow can provide a sense of purpose and connection to nature. Plus, having fresh herbs on hand can inspire you to cook more, further boosting your mood through healthy eating.
5. Declutter and reorganise a small area of your home.
Source: Unsplash Choose a manageable space, like a drawer, a shelf, or even your wardrobe. Sort through items, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard. Reorganise the space in a way that makes sense to you, perhaps investing in some organising tools if needed. The process of decluttering can be cathartic, helping to clear your mind as you clear your space. The sense of accomplishment from completing this task, coupled with the pleasure of a newly organised area, can significantly lift your spirits.
6. Learn a new dance routine from an online tutorial.
Dancing is a fantastic mood booster, combining physical activity with creativity and fun. Search for dance tutorials on YouTube or other platforms — you can find everything from ballet to hip-hop. Clear some space in your living room and follow along with the instructor. Don’t worry about perfection; the goal is to get moving and have fun. The combination of exercise, music, and learning something new can be a powerful mood enhancer.
7. Start a gratitude journal and reflect on positive aspects of your life.
Source: Unsplash Get a new notebook or use a journaling app on your phone. Set aside some time to write down three things you’re grateful for each day. They can be big things, like supportive friends, or small pleasures, like a perfect cup of tea. The act of focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and improve your overall mood. Make this a daily habit, and you might find yourself naturally noticing more positive things throughout your day.
8. Create a piece of art, regardless of your skill level.
Source: Unsplash Engage in a creative activity without worrying about the end result. This could be painting, sketching, collage-making, or even adult colouring books. The act of creating something can be incredibly therapeutic and mood-boosting. Express your feelings through colours and shapes, or simply enjoy the meditative process of focusing on a creative task. Remember, the goal isn’t to create a masterpiece, but to enjoy the process of self-expression and creativity.
9. Arrange a virtual game night with friends or family.
Social connection is crucial for mood improvement, even if it’s done remotely. Set up a video call with friends or family and play some online games together. There are numerous platforms offering virtual versions of classic board games, trivia quizzes, or even more complex strategy games. The combination of social interaction, friendly competition, and shared laughter can significantly boost your mood. Don’t forget to schedule regular virtual meetups to maintain these important social connections.
10. Explore a new podcast and take a long walk in nature.
Source: Unsplash Find a podcast on a topic that interests you, whether it’s true crime, science, history, or comedy. Download an episode or two, put on your trainers, and head out for a walk in a local park or nature reserve. The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and engaging content can do wonders for your mood. Pay attention to your surroundings as you walk, noticing the trees, flowers, or wildlife. This mindful approach to walking, coupled with the mental stimulation from the podcast, can help clear your mind and lift your spirits.
11. Create a personalised self-care box for future mood boosts.
Gather items that bring you comfort or joy and place them in a special box. This could include your favourite tea, a scented candle, a soft face mask, a book of inspirational quotes, or a playlist of uplifting songs. The act of curating this box can be a mood-boosting activity in itself. Once complete, you’ll have a go-to resource for future moments when you need a pick-me-up. Knowing you have this personalised mood-boosting tool at your disposal can provide a sense of comfort and control over your emotional well-being.
12. Learn and practice a new meditation or breathing technique.
Source: Unsplash Explore different meditation or breathing exercises online or through apps. Choose one that resonates with you, and dedicate some time to learning and practising it. This could be a simple breath-focused meditation, a body scan relaxation technique, or a loving-kindness meditation. These practices can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and improve your overall mood. By incorporating this new skill into your routine, you’re boosting your mood for the weekend and equipping yourself with a valuable tool for managing stress and emotions in the future.
