4 Self-Care Habits to Boost Your Mood (And Keep It There!)

Self-care habits are essential when it comes to taking care of ourselves. And by habits, I’m referring to routine lifestyle activities you can incorporate into your day to cultivate a pervading sense of wellness and balance.

Developing a self-care habit is one of the best ways to nourish the soul and uplift the spirit. When life gets busy and we neglect self-care, it has a negative ripple effect – less energy, diminished confidence, increased stress – the list goes on.

That’s why it’s important to make yourself a priority. Habits are a reminder that life is more than a never-ending to-do list. It is something to be celebrated and enjoyed to the fullest.

Read on for a list of easy, but oh-so-effective self-care ideas that you can incorporate into your daily routine to keep the stress at bay and help you feel – and give – your best all day, every day.

Here Are 4 Self-Care Habits You Can Add to Your Daily Routine:

1. Get Your Morning Sweat On

How you start your day sets the tone for the rest of your day. And changing your physical state is the quickest way to change your mental state.

Get those feel-good endorphins flowing and use morning exercise to energize you throughout the day. Exercise also helps maintain a positive mindstate and has even been proven to improve your decision making.

Making time for a morning workout is a great self-care idea to add to your morning routine. It doesn’t have to take a ton of time, and you bet it’ll be time well-spent.

2. Get Grounded In Nature

You know that sense of peace you feel after a walk through the park? Spending time outdoors is scientifically proven to enhance your overall wellbeing. It’s one of the most simple yet effective self-care habits.

The best part about nature is that it grounds you and helps you stay present. Embrace the warm sun on your face, the beauty of the flowers, the sound of the birds, and enjoy the inner peace that follows.

Even something as simple as walking to work or sitting outside for your morning coffee can make a major difference.

3. Schedule Short Meditation Breaks

Research has shown the many mental and physical health benefits of meditation. As for emotional wellbeing, meditation helps us clear out our minds that get so full throughout the day with the amount of information and sensory overload that can increase stress levels.

New to meditation? Learn How to Meditate in Six Simple Steps

In our technology-driven culture, meditation is vital to self-care and maintaining a calm, peaceful state of mind.

It’s easy to get lost in the stress of our busy lives and hectic schedules. Set aside five to ten minutes every few hours and take that time to pause and breathe deeply. You’ll be amazed at the shift in your mental state.

4. Grab a Pen Before Bed

Writing brings clarity to your thoughts and helps you reframe your perspective. When you write down what you’re thinking and how you’re feeling, it subconsciously makes you feel like you can control your thoughts, instead of them controlling you.

Over time, journaling can change the way you think and improve your overall mental state. As an effective stress management practice, journaling a must-have in your self-care toolkit.

Start Living with Passion and Purpose

A self-care habit will help you slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. Developing a greater sense of mindfulness helps you connect to the present moment, which, as we all know, is where true happiness lies.

Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits all approach. Ask yourself: What makes me feel centered? What do I find relaxing? It may take some experimenting at first, but that’s part of the fun!

This article originally appeared on YogiApproved.