Psychologists may still be arguing over the exact figures, but the bottom line on recent research is is that a huge chunk of how you feel depends not on your genes or circumstances but on what you intentionally do! So, boost your happiness with these 7 steps that science says work like charm! [i]
1. Exercise!
Study after study finds exercise not only good for your health, but also mood-lifting.[ii]
2. Hang around with friends and family!
Strong relationships with your family or close friends also make you both happier and healthier. [iii]
3. Eat healthy!
Turns out bad food equals bad mood! Scientist have found that by eating junk we increasingly get ourselves into an emotional funk – depression, anxiety, and insomnia. [iv]
4. Helping others helps YOU
Help others to help yourself! We are programmed to feel good about helping others – so lend a hand and reap the benefits! [v]
5. Get outdoors!
Spending time outdoors, especially in the nature gives a nice boost to our emotional well-being. [vi]
6. Sleep more, feel better!
Turns out sleep deprivation makes you not only a low-performer at work or school but also puts you in the blues. So, for happiness’ sake, sufficient sleep is a must! [vii]
7. Meditate for a happier you!
Studies on Transcendental Meditation for example demonstrate that by sitting still and doing nothing (sort of) you can train your brain to ace in the happiness department! [viii]
References:
[i] Lyubomirsky, S., Sheldon, K. M., & Schkade, D. (2005). Pursuing happiness: The architecture of sustainable change. Review of General Psychology, 9, 111-131.
Sheldon, K. M., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2007). Is it possible to become happier? (And if so, how?). Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 1, 1-17.
[ii]Health and Wellness. thepursuitofhappiness.org
[iii]Good Close Relationships Matter. actionforhappiness.org
[iv] Health and Wellness. thepursuitofhappiness.org
[v] Farino, L. (2014). Do Good, Feel Good. MSN Health
[vi] MacKerron, G. (2013). Sea and Sun Equal Happiness. London School of Economics.
[vii] More Sleep Would Make Most Americans Happier, Healthier and Safer. American Psychological Association.
[viii] Meditation, Well-being and Positive Emotions. TMhome.com
