How to Feel Happier by Doing These Simple Things

Scientifically Supported Suggestions for Greater Happiness

1. Exercise more, even 7 minutes a day might be enough. Research with three groups of patients with a diagnosis of depression indicated that of the three, the group that exercised, without taking any anti-depressants, were much less likely to relapse after 6 months.

2. Sleep More. Having enough sleep makes us less susceptible to feeling emotions such as anger or fear. We feel happier.

3. Shorten your Commute. Nothing like a long commute to drag you down during your work week.

4. Spend time with friends and family. The most important key to happiness in life, according to various research studies, is having good relationships with family and friends. Money doesn’t appear to buy happiness, once a certain point is reached.

5. Go Outdoors. Happiness is maximized at 13.9 C. That’s 57 F. The study was done in England. Might be higher in Arizona.

6. Help Others. 100 hours a year is the magical number.

7. Practice Smiling. A fake smile doesn’t do it. Try to find something to smile about. A fake smile can lead to a real one, however, so don’t despair.

8. Plan a Trip. You don’t necessarily have to take it. The best part of a vacation seems to be during the planning of it.

9. Meditate. Meditation increases calmness, contentment, and empathy for others.

10. Practice Gratitude. Keep a journal on gratitude; share your good times with friends or family. Give thanks to others.

Finally, just getting older tends to make people feel happier. One hypothesis is that older people have learned how to regulate their moods better than younger ones. They do the things that maximize their happiness. Whatever floats their boat!

From: 10 Simple Things You Can Do Today That Will Make You Happier, Backed by Science by Belle Beth Cooper. The full article is here: http://blog.bufferapp.com/10-scientifically-proven-ways-to-make-yourself-happier

- Adapted from: http://www.taosinstitute.net/2014-janfeb