If you’re searching for simple ways to drastically increase your happiness levels, simply continue reading to discover 5 things which are guaranteed to make you feel happy.
5 Things that Make you Happy:
Volunteering on a regular basis
A recent study conducted by the London School of Economics found that individuals who volunteer once a week are 16% more likely to feel really happy than those who don’t. By volunteering on a regular basis, not only will get a rush out of helping others but you’ll also decrease your stress levels and give you a sense of purpose. So it’s well worth contacting an organization whose mission and goals, inspires you to volunteer your time.
Exercising several times a week
When you exercise and get your heart pumping, your brain releases dopamine a natural chemical which will immediately improve your mood. In fact, dopamine is the chemical which your brain emits every time that you experience pleasure or happiness.
As added bonuses, exercising on a regular basis can increase your energy levels and decrease your stress levels which will help you feel happier on a daily basis. As low energy and stress are two factors which can significantly decrease your happiness levels.
Spending time with your friends
Spending time each week with supportive, caring friends can significantly boost your mood as humans are social creatures who benefit from regular social interaction. So if you’re looking for a simple way to feel happier, it’s well worth calling a friend to organize a catch-up.
As an added benefit by fostering your close friendships, you’ll feel happier as you’ll know that support is just a phone call or email away. Imagine being able to send your friend a “get well soon” or “congratulations on the new job” card in the matter of minutes instead of having to wait for the mail. What friend wouldn’t appreciate an online card as a caring gesture and reminder that they have your friendship to help keep them going in life? If you take time to strengthen your friendships, or do small things to help brighten their day, you’ll have no trouble finding a friend to talk to, when you’re going through a challenging, difficult time.
Taking time out to relax
If you lead a hectic, fast-paced lifestyle, it’s important to take time out each day to recharge your batteries. If your time is limited, you may find that simply taking 20 minutes to soak in a hot bath, meditate or to sit outside in the sun, may dramatically increase your mood.
When it comes to taking time out to recharge, ensure to choose activities or tools which you personally find fun and calming, such as fidget rings. As the activities which your friends, partner or family members may find relaxing, may not interest you.
Switching off your electronic devices
In today’s technologically connected society, you may start to feel stressed out by the pressure to respond to all of your friends’ social media messages and posts. One simple, foolproof way to increase your happiness levels is to turn your smartphone and laptop off in the evenings.
Which will allow you to focus on spending time with those around you, instead of constantly checking your social media accounts for new messages, comments or likes.
So if one of your primary goals is to feel happier on a regular basis, it’s well worth trying out the 5 activities listed above. As each suggestion has been scientifically proven to increase happiness.