Top 10 ways to boost your mood - from going on walks to smile from stranger

A walk in is the perfect natural cure for the winter blues.

Almost half of Britons - 49% - said it was the best way to boost their mood, beating a hug from a loved one and seeing sunny skies. Other ways to help cure include getting into bed with clean sheets, the perfect cup of and watching with your favourite snacks.

Britons say they feel down an average of nine days a month, with money worries, the , fears about getting old and health concerns being the main reasons for this. With the clocks going back this week, it also found 26% of people believe they need more pick-me-ups during the darker winter months.

The poll by energy drink Boost found 89% of people also think that helping others is key to happiness, while one in three get a boost when someone does something kind for them. A quarter say the ultimate pick me up is doing something to help others in need, with donating clothes to the charity shop or fundraising popular ways to do this.

Boost commissioned the survey to mark teaming up with charity Re-engage to launch their Call Companion volunteer drive, where younger Brits can support lonely older people over the festive period via companionship and weekly phone calls.

Anjna Mistry, brand leader at Boost, said: “It’s clear from the research that Brits are searching for small ways to get a boost of positivity, and nothing gives you a boost like helping others.”

Instant natural mood boosters according to Britons

1. A walk in nature
2. A hug from a loved one
3. Sunny skies
4. A smile from a stranger

5. Getting into bed with clean sheets
6. Watching TV with your favourite snacks
7. A slice of cake
8. The perfect cup of tea
9. Being sent a funny meme
10. Having your favourite meal for dinner