Just because you’re in a bad mood doesn’t mean that you have to stay stuck in one.  Live these easy, scientifically proven strategies to turn your frown upside down.

1. Quench your Thirst – If you’re cranky or sluggish, that second cup of coffee might not be the best way to perk yourself up.  Instead, try a glass of water or another nonalcoholic, caffeine-free beverage.  Recent research in the Journal of Nutrition shows that even mild dehydration can cloud a sunny disposition.

2. Play Favorites – there is a good reason you want to watch Bridesmaids over and over.  Losing yourself in a much-loved movie or book helps you recapture pleasant memories, according to the American University study.  “When you rewatch a comedy you love, for example, your familiarity with the jokes produces a guaranteed high.” says lead author Cristel Russel, Ph.D., an assistant professor of marketing.  And the benefits aren’t just limited to laughs: A sad novel can brighten your outlook by sparking self-reflection, which helps you view things from a new perspective and see how much you have grown.

3. Dress Up – “There’s psychological power to clothing, and choosing the right outfit can improve your mood.” says Karen Pine, Ph.D. a professor of developmental psychology at the University of Herfordshire in England.  According to her research, “happy” clothes are well cut, figure enhancing, and made from bright beautiful fabrics.

4. Take a Whiff- Sniffing rosemary oil helped workers in a British study feel more content and even slightly improved their performance.  And the higher concentration of rosemary in your system, the bigger the mood boost.

Source: July Shape Magazine