Celebrate Int’l Happiness Day

Celebrate International Happiness Day on March 20th! Happiness feels good. Right? Happier people have better overall health and live longer than their less happy peers. Happiness is a skill we can learn. It is a choice that starts with positive thoughts which manifest feelings of happiness and serving behaviors. Our genetics are responsible for about 50% of the variation in our personal happiness. Our circumstances (like income and environment) affect only about 10%. As much as 40% is accounted for by our daily activities and the conscious choices we make. So the good news is that our actions really can make a difference.

Put one or many of these simple practices to action. Start today and you may be surprised how happiness may shine throughout your life!

1. Give to someone: It can be as simple as a smile, holding a door, or a hug.
2. Make a connection: Stop and find time to connect with your partner, play with the kids, call a family or dear friend.
3. Take time to exercise: Try to move today a little more, try a new activity, physical activity make us feel good and boost moods.
4. Be mindful” Give yourself some headspace to find stillness and breathe. In this moment notice the sun, the birds, the smell of coffee, or the laughter of children.  Be present!  It’s a gift for sharing.
5. Learn something new: Try a new food, take a different route home from work, try a new workout i.e yoga or tabata?
6. Set meaningful and realistic goals: Seek help.  Take action to make these happen!
7. Build resiliency: Create a tool box of coping skills like yoga and meditation to help you cope when stress presents itself.
8. Practice gratitude: Recognize things that you are grateful for.  A sense of gratitude creates a positive attitude.
9. Find acceptance: Be kind and compassion for oneself, find your strengths and build on these. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect to be good!
10. Be part of something bigger than ourselves: Join the Healthstyles community.

So, I leave you with one of my favorite happiness quotes:

‘Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.’

Mahatma Gandhi