8 Ways to Feel Good Now

1. Never stop learning. Study a foreign language, take an international cooking class, or enroll in flamenco dance lessons.

2. Clean out your closet. Donate clothes to a women’s shelter or charity thrift store. The Family Place, 214-358-0381. The Salvation Army Thrift Store, 214-630-5611. Genesis Women’s Shelter, 214-520-6644. Buckner Baptist Benevolences, 214-358-0381.

3. Do your feet a favor; trade stilettos for a pair of ballet flats. If you can’t bear to leave your heels behind, buy a half-size larger than you normally wear and slip in a cushy insert.

4. Adjust your monitor to avoid back pain, headache, and eyestrain. Your monitor should be centered in front of you and at least an arm’s length away. The top of the screen should be level with your eyes.

5. To shake off a bad day, pump up the volume and release your inner diva.

6. Take a brisk walk at least once a day. The fresh air and physical activity will boost endorphins and your metabolism. Don’t forget about the Katy Trail, Dallas Arboretum, or the Trinity River Trails in Fort Worth for days when you have more time.

7. Drop and gimme 20. Join one of Dallas’ boot camps; these military-style exercise programs mean business and guarantee results. And completing one earns you bragging rights. Boot Camp Fitness, www.jaysbootcamp.com. Dallas/Fort Worth Adventure Boot Camp, www.dfwbootcamp.com. Dallas Military Fitness, www.dallasmilitaryfitness.com.

8. Place an exotic flower or potted plant on your desk. “There is scientific evidence that flowers and plants in the workplace improve creativity and lower stress,” says Ashley Hudnall, assistant manager of Dr. Delphinium. Her recommendation: the tropical and low-maintenance bromeliad. Dr. Delphinium, 5806 W. Lovers Ln., 214-522-9911.