Well-Being

Natural Mood Boosters to Get You Out of a Funk

Since COVID, mental health is finally getting more attention

By Natalie Langston /

I’m an eternal optimist and usually have a very happy, sunshiny vibe. But, no matter how great things are and how grateful I am, there are still days when I’m feeling down. Hey, I’m only human! And I know I’m not alone.

When you’re feeling a little low, there are some simple things you can do to help improve your mental health. Of course, life is all about balance—we can’t have the highs without the lows—and part of being human is embracing where you’re at and feeling it out. However, it’s helpful to remember that you do have some control over your mood.

Below, I’m sharing my mood-boosting, funk-reducing go-tos for when I’m feeling down and what I use daily to help lift my mood.*

Supplements

This is a list of my daily or frequently used supplements. Please speak to your healthcare practitioner before adding any to your routine.

  • Balanced B Complex or B Supreme by Designs for Health
  • Vitamin D (2500IU, 1000IU or 800IU)
  • Prenatals by MegaFood Baby & Me 2
  • Fish oil (EPA/DHA) Omega Liquid by Cytomatrix
  • Probiotic
  • Magnesium Bis-glycinate (200mg)
  • Protein Powder – Clean Collagen
  • Fera-Pro (75mg added to 1000mg vitamin C to help absorption)

A visit to the IV clinic

Sometimes, a trip to Dr. Kay (ND) at The IV Health Centre in Yaletown takes the blues away. The clinic has comprehensive testing protocols to find the root cause of how and why you’re feeling a certain way. This helps them determine and target your personalized treatment plan. From there, you can choose from naturopathic treatments (detox supplements, herbs, etc.), IVs (with NAD and amino acids to reduce stress and inflammation), acupuncture, massage and aesthetic-focused treatments (Botox, fillers and micro-needling). They truly have it all.

Workouts

Workouts allow me to shift my focus to performing the movements and getting my sweat on. Plus, the endorphins give me an immediate boost.

I recently got the chance to try out the new Peloton Guide. I was able to take all sorts of classes, including dance, meditation, yoga, strength-training, barre and so much more. It’s perfect for when my boys are napping. I just pick a workout based on my mood and energy level, then get to it. I love the yoga and meditation options for a touch of mindfulness. When I have more energy, I always go for cardio or strength-training. I also tried a great dance class (ex-dancer here!). Next on my list to try: boxing.

Just starting your fitness journey? I can’t recommend Peloton Guide enough. It provides a lot of variety so you stay engaged. It’s super easy to use and picks out a workout that suits your timeframe and mood. All of the instructors are super encouraging and it feels like you have your own personal trainer. The best part? You don’t need to leave your house to work out. It’s a great way to start and stay motivated with your fitness routine.

Retail therapy

They call it therapy for a reason. Seriously, sometimes wearing a new piece of clothing or a whole new outfit can sweeten that sour mood.

For comfort, I go for Knix. Their pieces always make me feel strong, confident and put together. And that’s been Knix’s stance from the beginning: knowing and owning who you are. Below are some of my fave pieces from Knix:

Shadow Mesh Bra: a wireless bra with a v-neckline featuring beautiful mesh detailing at the center front, and includes smooth fabric with four-way stretch, bonded construction for wireless support, non-removable cups and adjustable straps.

  • Longevity Bra: The sports bra that’s down for whatever—from downward dog to spilling tea with your bestie. It’s a longline style, made for any low-impact activity that raises your heart rate.
  • Good to Go Seamless Legging: These leggings will make you regret ever wearing pants. They’re a dream, and made from a special fabric that feels soft and supportive at the same time.
  • Momenta Racerback Pullover Sports Bra: Look cute and maybe work out later in the smoothest pullover sports bra.
  • HiTouch™️ High Rise Legging:  These are made to contour your bum and calves, and it’s unreal how good your bum will look in these. They have a a high-rise, no-slip waistband that hits at the perfect spot and doesn’t fall down.
  • Good to Go Fleece Jogger: These joggers are beyond comfy—for real. You’re going to slip on the modal cotton fabric and smooth waistband and be like, “How’d they do this!?”
  • Good to Go Fleece Crew Neck: When you don’t know if you’re going for an athletic or leisure vibe, choose the crew that does both. Made with the softest modal fabric, it’s perfect for those days that feel like marathons.

Looking for something a little more dressed up? RW&CO blazers that add a pop of colour are always my go-to. The bright colour will immediately brighten your mood. And I’m loving their new arrivals. Trust me, you’ll feel like a ray of sunshine after putting one on.

Self-care

Even thinking or reading about self-care takes some stress away. Just me? Well, it’s about to be you too.

When I think self care, I think Saje Natural Wellness. Their best-selling scent, Liquid Sunshine was specifically created to uplift your mood and encourage happiness with a citrusy blend of lime, bergamot and grapefruit. How sweet is that?! And they have plenty of options for you to soak up the sun: a diffuser blend, a hand cream, a foaming hand soap and a foaming wash pad.

Another way I practice self-care is by giving myself space to breathe, meditate, journal and sit with my thoughts. A cup of tea is always the best companion for those times. My go-to recently has been blume’s Matcha Coconut Blend. The blend is creamy from the coconut and provides a zen-ergized feeling without a crash later on.

And, the girls that get it, get it. There’s nothing like treating yourself to a haircut or colour. I don’t know about you, but it also feels like I get a therapy session and catch up with my stylist. When I need a little pick-me-up, I brighten my hair colour at Suki’s. Jessica is my gal and I can’t recommend her enough. You won’t regret booking an appointment with her.

The next time you need some inspo, visit this article again and pick an option that suits you at the moment. The important thing to remember is that, for most of us, the lows are only temporary and now you have the tools to bring the good vibes back. And if your mental health is really taking a hit, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend or professional. I hope these funk-busting examples align with you.

*The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.