Simple Yet Incredible Ways to Boost a Friend's Spirit ...

If your friend is having a bad day and she’s being hard on herself, replace her negative thoughts with positive ones. Sometimes, we can be extremely hard on ourselves, and it takes a good friend to put things back into perspective. For example, she might be questioning her skills or abilities after being laid off from work. Or after a break up, she might feel she wasn’t a good girlfriend. If you feel otherwise, let her know why.

Getting your friend out the house for a couple of hours can lift her spirits. Maybe you can treat her to a movie — but nothing sad or depressing. Choose a comedy where both of you can laugh and forget your problems for a couple of hours. Science proves laughter can boost mood and help us feel better about ourselves.

Invite your friend to get ice cream or frozen yogurt. A little, inexpensive treat not only gets her out the house, the two of you can talk about the situation over comfort food. If she doesn't want ice cream, let her choose another treat — maybe a slice of pizza.

Getting out the house and taking advantage of a beautiful day might also lift your friend’s mood. Vitamin D is a nutrient that can boost mood. Also, outdoor activities like biking, hiking or swimming increases the production of endorphins, which are brain chemicals that can improve our mood and emotional state. Other activities to do in the sun include playing sports on the beach, gardening or taking your dogs for a walk in the park.

If your friend is feeling down, she might feel better after getting a few things off her chest. Sometimes, all a person wants is a listening ear — someone who will listen to their frustrations and offer comfort. Don’t feel pressured to come up with a solution or fix the problem.

It doesn't have to be an expensive present, just something to let her know you're thinking about her and you care about the situation. If you can't think of anything, give her a card with encouraging words. Let her know you're available whenever she needs to talk.

Depending on cash flow, you and your friend can take a weekend or overnight trip together. You can explore a new city and get your mind off your problems for one or two days. A change of scenery might be exactly what she needs. If you can't afford a weekend trip, consider a day trip within driving distance.

Even if you can't relate to your friends’ situation, or if you don't know what to say, just being there and offering words of encouragement can provide comfort and lift her spirits. What are other simple, yet incredible ways to uplift a friend?