As silly as it sounds, grabbing the feather duster, sweeping brush or vacuum cleaner and doing just 20 minutes of brisk housework per week can lift your spirits, benefitting both your mind and your body, according to a team of students at the University College in London.

The students carried out a survey which looked at almost 20,000 men and women, comparing levels of weekly exercise with mental wellbeing.

The team discovered that the more active people, who did at least one short bout of exercise per week, were less likely to suffer from stress and anxiety.

They discovered that a weekly session of housework or gardening for just 20 minutes was enough to reduce the risk of stress by 20%.

They also found that sporting activity can cut the risk of getting the blues.

However, the experts say that in order to combat stress as well as getting the blood pumping around the body, you must make sure you break into a sweat or experience a little breathlessness!

So no slacking on the scrubbing! There are two theories which the experts are basing these findings on. The first is based on the body releasing endorphins and mood enhancing chemicals during strenuous activity and the second is that increased body temperature from exercise decreases tension in the muscles as well as creating feelings of increased self confidence and distractions from negative thoughts.

So if you?ve been feeling a little down lately, why not pick up your mop and bucket and clean your way to a happier day!