Quick Fix to Alter Your Mood

Having an off day? Can't pull yourself out of funk?
Are you anxious, worried or can't seem to concentrate?

According to Dr. Ian Robertson, author of The Stress Test: How Pressure Can Make You Stronger and Sharper (Bloomsbury), you can alter your mood and boost your confidence by simply squeezing your right hand into a fist.

Begin by lightly squeezing your right hand for approximately 45 seconds. Then relax it for 15 seconds. Repeat this cycle as required. 

Dr. Robertson states this action boosts the activity in the left frontal area of the brain that is part of the reward-seeking network of the brain.

Additional benefits that can be experienced with this quick and easy technique include perseverance in problem solving and improved memory when trying to remember things such as new skills, or names of people.

Needless to say squeezing the left hand in this manner can increase negative emotions.

So the next time you feel the blues coming on, you feel nervous and/or your mind is racing in a million directions, try this little gem of a self care idea.