I love reading up on studies about successful weight loss. The ones I enjoy most reveal the primary connection between how we think (mood) and our food choices. Can weight loss really be joyful? Of course, not all of you need to lose weight … but you DO need this info. Why? Because all of you eat! Finding ways to make healthier food choices is a resource we can ALL use.

So, here’s the study in a nutshell … or should I say, in an M&M candy coating shell?

My favorite food guru brainiac Brian Wansink (the author of my dog-eared copy of Mindless Eating) studied the munching habits of participants who were offered M&Ms and raisins. Different participants were asked to recall four sad memories or four joyful memories before given the snacks.

Here’s the kicker, folks!

Those who shared

joyful memories ate 77% healthier

than their sad counterparts.[1][2]

Now you know why MOOD MATTERS!

So, we’ve gotta brighten our moods, right? Start right now. This minute. The following tips should get you started on giving stress the heave-ho and kindling a mood-boosting fire:

*Keep a gratitude journal

*Take a walk in nature

*Connect with a friend

*Pet your pet – (although pet fish make this a tough one to do)

*Use a cool mist essential oil diffuser in your room and diffuse mood-elevating oils such as lemon, orange, peppermint, patchouli, cinnamon, sandalwood, and / or your favorite blend.

*Organize a cluttered area such as your desk, your nightstand, or your bathroom counter top.

*Dance anywhere, anytime

Brightening your mood isn’t just a good idea – it’s a vital part of your healthy mealtime regimen. Perhaps you may even drop a few pounds as a result? (If you have them to lose, that is.)

As for me, if weight loss is

a side effect of a good mood,

then bring it on!

What’s your favorite “good mood” tip? Do share below. 

[1] http://foodpsychology.cornell.edu/content/influence-incidental-affect-consumers-food-intake

[2] http://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1086/655665?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents