A full tank of happiness is a good thing. It means that you won’t need to stop for gas for quite some time.
Pleasure, joy and excitement can all be types of happiness, but so can deeper feelings of contentment or life satisfaction, Stern says.
Objections to happiness-based policies concern the way they might infringe on people’s autonomy or their sense of rational self-interest. They might also seem to endorse paternalism.
1. Exercise
Many people know that exercise is good for their health, but what fewer people realize is that exercise also makes them happier. When you exercise, your brain releases the mood-enhancing chemicals serotonin and dopamine. These effects can last for hours after your workout, boosting your happiness levels.
Another reason why exercise makes you happy is that it increases self-esteem and confidence. This is especially true if you exercise with others, as this helps to build deeper relationships.
Choosing the right type of exercise can help you be even more happier. For example, dancing is an excellent form of exercise for a happiness boost as it allows you to apply your creativity. Other exercises that can improve your happiness include running, swimming, and biking. If you can’t get outside, try some yoga or strength training.
2. Meditation
Research shows that meditating can reset your happiness set point and literally rewire parts of your brain.
It can be as simple as sitting in a comfortable chair or loosely cross legged, and focusing on your breath, observing the inhalation and exhalation. It’s okay if your mind wanders, as it will, but when you notice that it has, simply bring your attention back to the sensation of the breath.
The best way to get into a regular meditation practice is to start small, even just five minutes a day. And remember, consistent practice matters more than perfect practice. Just a few short daily sessions can calm your body’s stress response more frequently than just one 30 minute session.
3. Healthy eating
Eating a balanced diet, with plenty of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and protein can help you feel happier. It will also give your body the nutrients it needs to function properly.
Sugary snacks and processed foods may make you feel good in the moment, but they’ll leave you feeling sluggish and unhappy in the long run. Instead, choose nutrient-rich foods like whole grains, lean proteins and fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals to keep you happy.
Studies show that the consumption of certain food can affect neurotransmitter balances, which in turn, influence your mood. In fact, eating more healthy food can actually increase your happiness over time.
4. Connecting with others
The happiest people have a variety of connections in their lives, from close friends and family to professional acquaintances like accountants and doctors. These relationships provide a sense of belonging and support, and they also help you solve problems and overcome challenges.
Find ways to connect with others every day by reaching out to old friends, meeting new people through a club or meetup group, or just making time for phone calls and emails. You can also practice loving kindness by expressing gratitude or volunteering, and you can increase happiness by playing to your strengths, which might include kindness, curiosity, honesty, love of learning, perseverance, and more. This might be as simple as writing a letter to someone who helped you through a difficult period in your life and delivering it in person.
5. Taking care of your mental health
A happy, healthy mind is more than just a fad – it’s vital to physical health. “Happiness leads to healthier behaviours, such as exercise and a healthy diet, which helps stave off high blood pressure and excess body fat,” says Dr. Dee Marques, who designs wellness programs for people with heart disease and other conditions.
There are many things you can do to improve your mental health, from practicing gratitude to getting enough sleep. Spending time with positive, supportive people also helps, including family members, friends and peers in support groups. You can even get creative by trying your hand at a new hobby or learning a skill. These activities can help you get into a flow, a state of complete immersion and engagement that is closely linked to happiness.