Can you use memories to cheer yourself up?

Think about a favorite vacation that you took. Maybe you went to the beach, and can recall how the warm sand tickled your feet. Maybe you went hiking, and remember the delicious snack you had from the top of a hill. Maybe you spent the afternoon at a playground, swinging as high as you could and zipping down the slides.

Spend a moment really trying to bring this moment back to mind.

You might find that, after remembering these positive events, you feel happier than you did before.

This may be because positive memories can act like rewards. They activate the same brain regions that might be activated if we won some money or were given a tasty treat.

So, if you’re having a difficult day and feeling a little glum, try thinking about a happy memory. You might find that moment from the past can help you feel better right now!