It’s been said time and time again – the secret of life is happiness. It’s a simple statement, but for those who manage to find happiness, it rings true. But what defines happiness? How does a person reach that point in life where they can look at where they are, be at peace, and realize they’ve found happiness?
This month is the perfect time to take a look at your level of happiness as people celebrate International Day of Happiness on March 20. With so much going on in the world, it can be difficult to find and sustain a level of happiness, so this day can be the reminder you need to continue with your pursuit of happiness.
But just in case you need a little help, here are 10 scientifically proven ways you can boost your happiness.
Get a Dose of Fresh Air
It cannot be stressed enough just how incredible fresh air is for a person’s mental health. Fresh air works to boost your energy levels, lower your heart rate, and improve your mood. All of this can lead to increased happiness, especially if you make it a point to get fresh air regularly. Whether it’s a walk around the block, time spent in the park, or even sitting out on a patio – it can all lead to a greater sense of happiness.
Exercise Your Stress Away
Exercise is an activity that benefits you in a few important ways. Regular exercise helps you to maintain a healthy body weight, and improve your heart health, and your overall fitness. Exercise also provides an instant rush thanks to the endorphins released during workouts. These are the “feel good” hormones, so you start to feel good immediately.
The next time you’re feeling down in the dumps, and a little low, try going for a brisk walk, riding a bike, or hitting the gym.
Put Down Your Smartphone
Technology can be a wonderful thing. It can make our lives easier, and more organized, keep us entertained, and give us a convenient way to connect with others. But for all the good that cell phones offer, many people have become so dependent on them that it has almost become an addiction. Addiction to electronic devices is a real thing, and it’s something many suffer from.
If you need your phone within hand reach at all times and get nervous, anxious, and stressed if you don’t have it – you could be developing an unhealthy habit that will eat away at your happiness levels. Learning how to put your cell phone down is not only wise, it will feel liberating. When your phone isn’t in your hand, you’re able to live in the moment and enjoy it for what it is.
Make It a Point to Be More Social
People always use the line “We need to get together more often”, but does it happen? Saying it isn’t good enough. If you want to boost your happiness, your social life plays a huge role. Rather than wanting to make plans, prioritize them. Schedule social time into your calendar and make a point of seeing friends and family regularly.
These social gatherings are what help keep you grounded, get your mind off stress, share a laugh, or even vent if needed. Having strong connections with others can make your life feel more balanced and full, thereby increasing your level of happiness.
Give Yourself a Pep-Talk
Giving friends a pep talk may come naturally to you. Pointing out all their incredible features, reminding them they deserve the best in life, and boosting them when they need it is part of being a great friend. But when was the last time you did that for yourself?
You are just as deserving and sometimes a pep talk is exactly what you need. It can help lift your mood, and help you to see the good in your life.
Practice Meditation or Breathing Exercises
Because stress and anxiety are things that most people experience at least from time to time, it’s important to have a healthy way to deal with it. Pushing it to the back of your head, or letting it all build-up will not only chip away at your happiness but your mental health in general.
Meditation and deep breathing exercises can be a wonderful way to shut out the negative, dial down your stress, and find a sense of calmness. Meditation is something that takes practice and work, so don’t expect things to go smoothly from the get-go.
Kindness Matters – Start Doing Things for Others
This one is a simple tip that you can follow immediately and will offer instant gratification. When you start to do things for others, putting their needs and feelings first, it fills a person with joy. Doing things for others just feels good, and kindness matters.
Find Things to Be Grateful For
Finding things to be grateful for can be a difficult task, especially if you’re going through a hard time. It’s about re-programming your mind to not focus on the negatives immediately, but rather to try and find the positives you have. Eventually, it will become a habit and your way of thinking, and the way you view life starts to change for the better.
Ensure You’re Getting Enough Sleep Nightly
When you’re exhausted your mind and body suffer, and it is next to impossible to boost your happiness in this state. Getting enough good quality sleep allows you to be your best self and allows your body to function at its optimal levels. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep nightly, creating a consistent bedtime routine.
Make a Point of Smiling Daily – Find Joy in the Little Things
The final tip requires self-awareness. Make a point of finding joy in the little things and smiling daily. Even if it’s just one moment, it’s still a positive moment. The more you do this, the easier it will come to you and suddenly you’ll start to see a lot more joy and positives.