How to use movement to boost your mood

When you’re sad, stressed, or just feeling blah, getting up and being active might be the last thing you want to do. But, it could be exactly what you need to shake things off. Here’s how to plan moves that work for you.

Let’s dive a little deeper…

First, let’s be clear that we’re not veering into “toxic positivity” territory or trying to oversimplify the fix for complicated emotions. Going for a walk (or whatever) won’t solve all your problems. And sometimes, the answer to a bad day or mood actually is just crawling under the covers or into your social media feed.

But hear us out: A go-to movement plan is one of the best tools you can have in your mood-boosting toolkit. Research shows being active increases positive emotions in the moment and improves happiness long-term. It also impacts how the brain processes natural feel-good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, making it easier to cope with difficult events.

Whether you try stretching, a leisurely bushwalk, a sweat-soaked HIIT workout, or anything else, just choose your own adventure. Those mood and happiness gains may then set off a ripple effect: Studies show happier people make healthier choices around eating, sleep, and activity—a cycle that can shift your entire journey.