HEALTH

Everybody knows that happiness is one of the best emotions you can experience and that a sense of well-being is the key to living a long, satisfying and healthy life. Unfortunately, as you get older, you tend to get wrapped up in stress and negativity and forget how important it is to just be happy. Wanna ditch those feelings of doom and gloom and welcome some cheer into your life? Try these 8 simple strategies for a more smile-worthy day.

Exercise

Exercising daily not only makes you look good, it also makes you feel good. Exercise is scientifically proven to release proteins and endorphins that make you feel happier, so even if your appearance doesn’t change, how you feel about your body will. Strap on those sneakers and hit the pavement for an instant happiness boost.

Smile

Even if there is nothing to smile about, give a little grin anyway. Researchers from Clark University report that the simple act of smiling seems to activate happiness centers in the brain. It’s called the facial feedback hypothesis–basically, your facial muscles trick your mind into believing it’s happy. Pretty cool, right? Flash those pearly whites and fake it 'til ya make it.

Think positive thoughts

Optimism goes hand in hand with happiness. Focusing on the positives rather than the negatives in your life can often boost your mood. That doesn't mean you totally ignore the reality of a bad situation, of course, but seeing the bright side can bring a little light to an otherwise dark day.

Spend time with loved ones

There are few better remedies to unhappiness than putting in some quality time with your friends and family. Having close, positive relationships in your life can help you feel more confident, less stressed and happier. Bonus: A Harvard study found that happiness is, in effect, contagious. If one person is happy, it will spread to their friends... and their friends’ friends.

Sleep more

Whether it's a power nap, a cat nap or a full night’s sleep, catching some quality Zzz’s is essential for your overall well-being and happiness. Everyone has different sleep needs, but experts recommend 7-8 hours a night on average and a regular sleep-wake schedule to boost your mood significantly.

Meditate

Meditation can be a little intimidating (seriously, who can shut their crazy thoughts down?), but getting your om on is a great mood booster. Tons of research suggests that meditation can make you happier, less stressed and even nicer to others. 

Set goals

Psychologist Jonathan Freedman claims that people with the ability to set goals for themselves (both-short term or long-term) are happier than those who don’t. Goals add meaning, direction and focus to your life, giving you something to strive towards. Plus, when you finally meet or surpass your goal, you feel accomplished and more in control of your life....hey there, confidence!

Give back

There’s a reason why you get that “warm fuzzy” feeling when you are giving back. Research shows that when you do something genuinely for the sake of others, the pleasure centers in your brain become active. Try some volunteer work, donate to a worthwhile cause or just make a conscious effort to be nicer and help others. After all, what goes around comes around.

What are your tips for beating the blues? Share them in the comments below!

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