Wearing this ‘happy’ colour can lift your spirits – so keep a red jacket or scarf in your wardrobe for those days you need to ooze positive energy but would rather be in bed.

A study in the International Journal of Neuroscience showed that the aroma of peppermint boosted mood and cognitive performance in test subjects.

Call to a friend who always makes you smile. Research reveals that chatting with a cheerful BFF (or event an optimistic stranger) can make you happier than a $5,000 windfall!

Bright scents like lemon and orange can quickly lift your mood, leaving you feeling better. Peel an orange or slice a lemon and take a sniff. Or keep essential oils of citrus in your purse that you can take a whiff of.

Several studies have proven that doing a good deed can immediately boost mood by reducing stress. Simple things like volunteering at a local charity or even giving up your seat on the subway to someone who needs it more, are sure to make your day. Just smiling at someone that looks sad could make you – and them – feel better!

A brisk walk, a few quick yoga poses or twists, or other vigorous activity releases endorphins that can help you feel better fast.

Laughter can instantly improve the mood. So get out those comedy DVDs, watch a few funny clips on YouTube or just fake a laugh and you’ll quickly find your mood lifting.

Dancing combines two mood lifters – physical activity and music.So the next time you feel a little cranky, crank up your MP3 player and get dancing.

As adults, we often forget to be playful. Playfulness, however, can quickly decrease stress and boost mood. If you’re feeling grouchy, try playing with a pet or child and see if you don’t feel better.

Whether you head outside for a few minutes of sun, sit in a sunny window, sunlight can quickly lift your spirits. A study at the University of Essex demonstrated that even five minutes spent in nature can lift your mood.