Some days can be much tougher than others.

In fact, of the 365 days you get each year, there’s a good chance that a few will leave you feeling down in the dumps.

Maybe you had a royal screw-up at work, an argument with your significant other or even just one of those mysterious blue moods that seem to come on out of nowhere.

Whatever the reason, the important thing is not to dwell or wallow in that negative place. You may have the overwhelming feeling to slip into your dullest sweat pants, close the shades and hide away, but is that really going to lift you up? 

Instead of avoiding life, embrace it by doing something that makes you feel happy. Of course that could mean exercising (hello endorphins!) or reflecting on the great things you’ve got going on… But I’m partial to a good ol’ fashioned self-indulgence. So here are 5 great pick-me-up tips for those days when you’re feeling blue!

1. Ahhhh at the Spa

Foul moods and high levels of stress tend to go hand in hand. If your mind is tense, chances are your body is as well. One of the best (and most pleasant) ways to eradicate stress from body & mind is to let a professional handle it. And by professional, I mean a masseuse or aesthetician at your favorite local spa.

Every establishment has its own unique offerings, so it may be best to just tell them what ails you and see what they recommend. Ask what their most stress-busting, mood-elevating treatments are and opt for a couple that sound like heaven. A massage or facial may not solve your problems, but the therapeutic touch and mental peace they provide will put you in a more positive mood so you can move forward.

2. Take a Staycation

If only we could pack a bag and jump on the next plane out of town whenever life gave us lemons, all might be right with the world. Unfortunately, most of us don’t have the time or the money to take a vacation whenever we feel like it. But you probably can manage to take a mini staycation.

Call around to the luxury hotels in your area and book yourself a room. Bring along a change of clothes and a good book and do whatever your heart desires – order room service, take a bubble bath, go do something touristy, or just lay around in a fluffy robe and revel in the zero-responsibility vacation mentality.

3. The Perfect Piece

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to get the lift you need. Something as small as a new pair of jeans that fits you perfectly is enough to put a pep in your step. It certainly takes more than things to make a happy life, but the right thing can make a happy day. Here are a few suggestions:

  • A piece of clothing you’ve had your heart set on for a while.
  • A pair of shoes that makes you feel fierce.
  • A bottle of perfume or cologne in a scent that makes you smile.
  • A cool new pair of shades.
  • Something beautiful for your home.
  • A fancy kitchen accessory that makes cooking fun.

4. Hair

Looking good can go a long way in helping you feel good. And a little pampering doesn’t hurt either. The next time you’re feeling a bit down, make an emergency call to your stylist and change things up. Go for a style or color that’s a little out of the ordinary for you.

Or if you don’t want to commit to a new look, just get a deep conditioning treatment, blowout or styling. You’ll walk out looking like a million bucks, which can only make you feel better than you did when you walked in.

5. Eat Well

Okay, so you may be tempted to chow down on a supreme pizza and pint of cookie dough ice cream when you’re feeling less than your best, but don’t. Instead of giving in to your stress-fuelled urges, take yourself to a nice restaurant you’ve been wanting to try. Read a few reviews of the place before you go to figure out what they do best.

Get a little dressed up, grab a book or a friend and treat yourself to a truly wonderful meal that’s made with expertise and care by a trained chef. The combination of the restaurant’s ambiance and the sensory experience of the food are sure to set you right.

Treating yourself won’t solve all of your problems, but doing something nice for  number 1 can be a great way to adjust your perspective, take your focus away from your worries and kick the blues.

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Main image credit: pixabay.com

Author: Liz Kores

Liz Kores is the managing director of Oak Street Chicago, a business association that represents some of the finest designer boutiques, hotels, spas and restaurants in the Windy City.  She is also on the board of the Chicago Fashion Incubator and a frequent guest blogger on a variety of online style publications.  For more, visit www.OakstreetChicago.com.