Happiness…. What actually is happiness? And how do we get it? Happiness can be experiences that are achieved through a self-gratification approach, or associated with experiences related to a deeper sense of purpose and personal growth.
In 2007 study that followed more than 6,000 people found that happiness and emotional validity – a sense of enthusiasm, of hopefulness, of engagement in life, and the ability to face life’s stresses with emotional balance, appears to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. The protective effect was distinct and measurable, even when taking into account such wholesome behaviours as not smoking and regular exercise.
So, what can you do to increase your feelings of happiness?
- Sleep – Rest for the body and mind is imperative . A good nights sleep can make the world of difference to your outlook for the day and perspective .A good mattress will assist with giving you comfort and support .
- Be thankful – Acknowledge and appreciate the good things in your life. Start a gratitude diary: At the end of each day, write down three things you are grateful for. This can be really beneficial, particularly when your day hasn’t been so good.
- Keep moving – Exercise causes your body to release endorphins which are your natural “feel happy” hormone. Being fit and healthy also helps you to do what you want and enjoy the process if doing it.
- Give – Sharing makes us 4 times happier than being selfish and it doesn’t have to be a lot! Baking someone a cake, helping a friend out with a home project, buying your mum some flowers…. Even just letting someone in front if you at the supermarket check-out!
- Connect – Close friends and family will help you enjoy the good times and get through the bad. Make sure you make the time to catch up with those close to you, even if its only a quick coffee or just a phone call to say hi.
- Keep Learning – Develop new skills and stimulate your brain. Your brain loves to learn and your mood will benefit greatly from acquiring new knowledge about something you fee passionate about.
And always remember to smile! A large amount of evidence points toward the simple act of smiling as a cause of happy feelings. Even if it’s just a grimaced smile during peak hour with the person in the car next to you!
