Bad times come and go, but research is giving us new reason to leave our negativity at the door. One study found employees who bring negative emotions to work, stay in a bad mood all day and their productivity falls by more than 10 percent.
Another study found each happy friend increases your own chance of happiness by nine percent, while each unhappy friend decreases it by seven percent.
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Researchers found that it only takes milliseconds to subconsciously catch and feel emotions that are similar to people around you. But like any common cold, a bad mood can be cured. While many medicate their moods with anti-depressants, licensed mental health counselor Abeela Haq says some chemicals treated by these meds, can be boosted -naturally.
1. Serotonin For a good dose, of Serotonin, include dark cherries and bananas in your lunch.
2. Tryptophan Grab some milk or a turkey sandwich as you head out the door. Both are rich in the proven mood booster Tryptophan.
3. Endorphins Don't forget to pack some chocolate. The sweet treat helps release mood-elevating hormones called endorphins. If your counting calories, don't worry. A few squares will do the trick
4. Breathe deep It seems simple, but diapragmatic breathing is a proven way to calm your nerves. Try breathing deeply 15 times a day.
5. Exercise Not all workouts are created equal, but a 15-minute walk can do magic. Haq says the key is to do what you enjoy and if you do that, you'll actually naturally start boosting neurochemicals in your brain.
6. Valerian Root or Chammomile Tea Both herbs contain plenty of relaxants, so much so that they've been used to calm horses. So, sip your way to a smile.
Haq adds, one of the best ways to affect your mood is to watch what you put in your body. Many simple carbs such as soda and junk foods are downers, while protein and vitamin-rich foods improve stability.