Let go of the idea of perfection. Life is not a stroll in the park. You know that; in fact, you have even witnessed it, such as when the love of your life dumped you for someone who was unfortunate looking! Maybe you experienced this when you got fired from your job or when someone very close to your heart passed away.

 

Although these are very hard times, do not forget that life also has another face: happiness. Remember that being happy is always a choice. Although it is elusive, it comes to those who try to pursue it. So instead of locking yourself in that room and crying yourself to sleep, it’s time that you go out and begin to enjoy life!

 

Here are top ten most effective ways to chase those blues away:

 

10. Write

 

Unexpressed feelings work like worms inside an apple: they cause you to rot! Writing is one of the best ways to let out these locked up emotions. It can help you understand as well as reach your innermost self.

 

Simply grab paper and write down all those thoughts and feelings. Forget about grammar or spelling and avoid editing yourself. Just write, sentence after sentence about what’s happening and why it’s bothering you.

 

After writing up all that you keep inside, try burying it or burning the piece of paper in fire. You’ll surely feel as if a big load has been taken off of your heart.

 

You can also keep a journal. Write in it every time that you want to let out strong emotions.

 

9. Take a walk

 

Believe it or not, walking isn’t just an effective fat burning exercise, but also a good way to clear your head.

 

Get out of that bed and put on your most comfortable shoes! Walk slowly. Remember that you are not out there for a marathon. Clear your thoughts and just immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you. Feel the fresh and cool air caress your skin. Imagine yourself being rejuvenated by nature.

 

8. Eat healthy

 

Sure, that chocolate can keep you from crying at night, but the pounds that it adds to your weight are not at all comforting!

 

Instead of pigging out on chocolates and junk food, try to munch on something healthy like vegetable salads or fruit drinks. Eat lots of greens as well as fruits. Take in proteins from fish and chicken. Do not forget to include a little serving of carbs from wheat to help keep your energy pumped.

 

Stay away from unhealthy snacks like oily chips, cakes and caffeine.

 

7. Get some exercise

 

Did you know that exercise is a sure way to boost your happiness meter?

 

According to research, exercise allows the body to release a hormone that causes our body to feel better. But more than the hormone, exercise helps you trim those extra pounds, making you look and feel good about yourself.

 

Another alternative is to engage in a new sport like wall climbing, rowing or even biking! A new physical activity will help you stay busy and at the same time, diverts your attention from negative feelings or thoughts.

 

6. Find a craft

 

Remember how you always wanted to try your hand at cooking but you never really got the chance? Well, now is the best time to immerse yourself in a worthwhile craft.

 

Learning new skills will help take your mind off of negative thoughts. Instead, you will be busy and productive.

 

A new craft may include activities such as sewing, knitting, gardening, drawing or cooking.

 

5. Travel

 

Don’t lock yourself in that room and wail about how unfair life is! There are so many beautiful things to be thankful for and so many beautiful places to see!

 

Traveling allows you to get away from it all. It gives you new sights to see, new scents to smell and of course new people to meet. Traveling takes your mind off of your negative experiences and diverts your thoughts to new and exciting things.

 

Go to exotic beaches or famous tourist spots. Another great idea is to go on a road trip and see just how far you can go.

 

4. Connect with old friends

 

Feeling down in the dumps lately? Well, pick up that phone and call your high school best friend! Tell him or her what’s bothering you or just hang out and catch up on old times.

 

Talking to someone close to you makes you feel that you are not alone. Remember that there are people who don’t want to see you feel sad. Your friends can make your world a little brighter during a sad phase in your life.

 

3. Read books

 

There are many inspirational books that can help you through these tough times. They can inspire and convince you that there is more to life than sad stories.

 

There are also good novels and books that will let your creative imagination run through their pages. Read these feel-good books that revolve around the beauty of life. Feed your soul with moving words and lines.

 

You can even join a book club to help you understand and appreciate these wonderful masterpieces.

 

2. Reflect

 

Prayer is one of the most powerful things that can help you in times like these. You don’t need to be in a specific religion to do this.

 

Follow this exercise and be amazed by its effects:

 

Stay in a quiet room and sit in a comfortable position. Close your eyes and try to connect with your spiritual side. Reflect and meditate on things. Find out what it is exactly that’s hurting you. Pray and meditate. Keep your mind clear from any worries and your heart free from sadness.

 

Props like candles and soothing music can better help you reflect.

 

1. Be positive

 

This is one of the best ways to free yourself from depression. Think of positive thoughts like landing a new job or meeting someone very special.

 

Be careful with your words like I’m sad or I’m lonely. Always say that things will soon get better and watch just how things will work for you!

 

Depression will only beat you if you let it. So, if you’re starting to feel the blues then make a genuine effort to get out of the rut you’ve fallen into and beat that depression.