10 Top Tips for a Happier You

10 TOP TIPS FOR A HAPPIER YOU 




Studies show that happier people are not only more sociable, likeable, healthy, and productive— they’re far more likely to help others. 

Striving to boost your own happiness isn’t selfish.   It benefits everyone!





10 Tips to Boost Your Happiness


Fan Your Friendship Fires.  Building close bonds with others is one of the major keys to happiness.   So organise a lunch date, phone a pal or send a message to a friend you haven’t seen for a while.  

Nuke that Nagging Task.  Score something off your ‘to do’ list now.  Answer a challenging  email  or  make that dreaded dental appointment .  You’ll get a great energy rush and wish you hadn’t procrastinated for so long.

Grab a Friend and ….Gossip!  The Social Issues Research Centre recently revealed that a bit of a goss is the human equivalent of primate grooming.  It stimulates the production of endorphins,  giving you a natural high.

Cultivate Calm.   Clear some physical and mental space.  Sort out paperwork, throw out junk etc.  An uncluttered environment  fosters a greater sense of serenity.

Factor in Fun.  Studies show that having fun on a regular basis is a pillar of happiness, and anticipation is an important part of that pleasure.  So order a book you’ve been desperate to read (not one you imagine you should read) plan a weekend away, shopping trip,  book cinema tickets…… etc.

Pet Your Pet.  A recent study from Queens University showed pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol due to the calming effects of stroking their cats and dogs.  A Cats Protection study suggested 80% of owners said having a cat improved their relationships with other humans.

Sing Your Heart Out.  A University of California study shows deep breathing while singing lowers stress levels , boosts seratonin (which improves mood)  and charges the immune system.

Slap on a Smile.   Research shows that even an artificially induced smile has a positive influence on your emotions.  And when  you’re smiling, other people will perceive you as being friendlier and give you positive feedback.  A thoroughly virtuous circle!

Bag a Chocolate Treat.   Researchers at the Neurosciences Insititute in San Diego say chocolate contains THC (tetra-hydrocannabinol) which relaxes the brain the same way marijuana does!

Do a Good Deed  According to the National Academy of Science when volunteers just considered giving money to charity,  feel good chemicals like oxytocin were released.

Test YOUR Happiness Level

Psychologists claim it's possible to measure happiness.  Why not take this test designed by Prof. Ed Deiner from the Univ. of Illionois.  It takes just a moment to complete.  Click here to take the test.