6 quick ways to cheer up on a down-day

Everyone has their down days from time to time, right? Whether they're the result of gray skies from a never-ending winter, or a day when nothing is going right and you just can't see the light at the end of the tunnel, we all need to find ways around them. Here are a few ideas to help you cheer up the next time you run into a day like this: 

1. Sunlight. Are your curtains open? If not, open them. Natural light has an amazing affect on a sour mood. While you're at it, open the windows and let the fresh air in. (Though if it's winter, maybe don't leave them open too long.)

2. Chocolate. There's a reason why J.K. Rowling, in her Harry Potter series, writes that chocolate helps one recover after an encounter with a Dementor. A Dementor sucks the happiness from a person, and chocolate recovers the stolen happiness.

3. Do something artsy. You don't have to be an artist to be able to create something. Have you heard about awesome new adult coloring books? It's true! Head to your local craft store and ask where to find them. If you feel some momentary embarrassment, don't worry. You'll soon be on your way home with your little purchase of joy.

4. Go for a walk. It's hard to get up the motivation to get out there, but once you do, the fresh air and exercise will do their thing. And plus, your Fitbit will be happy with you.

5. Find something that has made you laugh in the past. Is there a GIF that has made you giggle? A YouTube video that has made your belly ache? Find them. Watch them. Repeat.

6. Do something nice. Send a text or email to a friend. Pay for the order of the person behind you in the drive-thru. Smile at each person you pass on the street. The latter might be awkward, but it could also totally make someone's day -- and your own -- brighter.

Jen Wilson started blogging in 2004 as an online journal because she was too absent-minded to remember where her tangible one was. She works part-time as a technical director and spends the rest of her time with an adorable red-headed four-year-old. Jen is currently parked at jenwilson.ca and twitters from @jenwilsonca.