How we dress really does affect our psyche. A sexy outfit makes you feel sexy. A goofy outfit makes you feel nutty and wacky. If clothing has this much of an impact, why not use costumes for therapy. Dress in a way that brings out the feelings, emotions, and behavior you want.

Feeling kind of blah and without energy? Resist the temptation to put on the torn up, stretched out sweats. Instead make your outfit something high energy, colorful and fun.

Feeling old and boring? Throw on a fun costume and you’ll be feeling young and silly in nothing flat. You’ll smile and laugh and you’ll make others laugh, if you have the guts to go out in public.

Run your errands in a Teletubbies costume and I just dare you to try to feel boring.

Do your grocery shopping in a chicken suit.

Wear a French Maids outfit while doing your cleaning and your attitude about chores will totally change.

Prepare dinner in a Ninja costume.

Take your kid (or yourself) to school wearing a Leprechaun costume. Who’s boring and old now? Not you!

Does your relationship need a shot in the arm? Try some costume therapy there. I have some friends who do this regularly and swear by it. They pick a theme and a place to meet. They each dress according to their theme (pirates, mobsters, disco, western) and then they go separately to the location. Then they act as if they don’t know each other, and start flirting and coming on to each other, and eventually go home together.

It works with kids, and it will work with you. Wearing the right costume is sure to cheer you up and put you in a better mood.

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