1. EXERCISE
When you exercise your body releases endorphins, chemicals that make you feel happier and ease pain. A good workout will also lower the levels of the stress-hormone cortisol, for a calmer – and happier – you.
2. SLEEP
Did you know that negative emotions are processed by one part of your brain and positive or neutral memories by another? Studies indicate that when you haven’t had enough sleep, your brain resorts to the bad memories and emotions, blocking out the happy ones; so more sleep = nicer thoughts.
3. GET SOCIAL
Us humans are social creatures. Even natural introverts are happier when they spend time with friends or family, and studies suggest that social people are healthier and live longer too. Today, why not invite a friend to meet-up?
4. SEEK OUT THE SUN
When it’s sunny our bodies produce more of the mood-lifting chemical serotonin. Spending 20 minutes outdoors in the sun can give you instant cheer!
5. FIND NATURE
Getting out in nature, whether it’s going for a walk in the forest or doing some gardening, has a positive affect on the way you feel. In fact seeing the colour green is linked to increased vitality!
6. HELP OTHERS
You know the saying: it’s better to give than to receive? Well, there’s truth in it. There’s overwhelming evidence to support that giving your time, or sharing something with someone else, will make you a more joyful person.
7. SPEND ON EXPERIENCES
It’s been proven that spending your money on activities, like going for dinner with a friend or to the theater, will make you happier than spending money on material things – skip the shoes and invite a friend for a coffee instead.
8. GET SMILING
Recalling positive memories and smiling while you do so will instantly boost your mood. Even if you don’t feel like it, forcing a smile can cheer you up.
9. MEDITATE
Meditating regularly has been proven to decrease stress and increase well-being. Get started by downloading a guided meditation app or joining a local group.
10. SAY THANK YOU
Before you go to bed, write down three things that you are thankful for – no matter how big or small. Alternatively, try sharing the things that you’re thankful for with a friend or your partner – recalling the day’s positive experiences will boost your mood.