Gloomy moods. Sure, they've inspired some of the best in world music and literature - but prolonged melancholy is a miserable experience. Here are a few ways to break up those clouds we all find ourselves under from time to time.

What's Bugging You? This is the bottom line. The world has become far too good at quick-fixing the symptoms of unhappiness with chemicals, possessions and other methods of making other people rich. The best cure? Tackle the problem. Even the tiniest step to resolving it will lift your spirits.
Happy Is as Happy Looks. Mind and body - two sides of one coin. So how do you behave when you're happy? Straight back? Quick, enthusiastic movements? Try it - your mood might follow. (Conversely: slouching may dampen your spirits).
  
Get Your Blood Pumping. Whether the mythical "endorphin rush" exists or not, it's clear that exercise lifts our mood. Nothing excessive - just a brisk walk, breaking a sweat in the garden...or a romp between the sheets. (Who says exercise isn't fun?)

What's in Your Stomach? If you're like me, carb-heavy foods make you sluggish and easily drag your mood down after the initial energy burst. Try eating oily fish: it contains omega-3 acids which are believed to boost your emotional control.

Unbottle Your Mood. Rant. Bend the ear of a willing friend, or scribble a page of outrage. Find somewhere remote and scream your head off. Let it go.

Fill your Lungs. In yoga it's called pranayama - the art of breathing well. How does your breathing change the way you feel? Here's a guide.

The last resort? Chocolate!

Image: Chaparral

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