Here Are 4 Perfect Exercises to Boost Your Mood

Got the blues? Movement is a natural detoxifier, and when you are not getting enough, you will feel more lethargic and motivation will continue to dwindle. Try these four therapeutic rebalancing exercises that will supply energy to the organs and muscles, improve circulation and assist in flushing out waste. The result: your mind and body will feel better.

1. Breathing Squats

Take a comfortable stance with arms crossed in front, feet wide enough to squat between your legs, thighs parallel. Inhale through your nose to take a full belly breath, then slowly squat down as you exhale. Go as low as possible, pause, then inhale slowly to return to standing for 10 to 20 reps. The tempo should match the slow rhythm of your breath. This energizes the body, utilizes multiple muscles and aids digestion.

2. Cross Crawl

Stand with feet hip-width apart and raise both arms overhead. Take a deep inhale. As you slowly exhale, bring together your right elbow and left knee while keeping your torso upright. Alternate sides, continuing at a slow, controlled breathing pace for 10 to 20 reps. This increases energy and awakens the circulatory system to combat fatigue and clear the mind.

3. Superman

Start face down on the floor, arms and legs outstretched in front of and behind you. Lift your left arm and right leg straight up towards the sky, thumb pointing upwards. Keep looking down as you hold this position for 5 deep breaths. Switch sides, and do 5 reps each side. This is excellent for awakening the posterior chain of the body, which helps restore and rebalance after spending time in a hunched, cold-weather posture.

4. Woodchop

Stand upright with feet slightly wider than hip width. Clasp hands overhead as you inhale. Exhale as you bend at the waist to bring the arms between the thighs, pausing at the end of the movement, and then inhale deeply to return to standing for 20 reps total. This allows increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain and the rhythmic effect will build a sense of calm.

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