If you find yourself feeling depressed or unhappy, there are several ways to increase your happiness. These tips are easy to follow and can help you feel better more often.
It’s also important to remember that happiness doesn’t always come from outside circumstances. Rather, it comes from within you.
1. Do Something You Enjoy
Doing something you enjoy is a great way to boost happiness in your daily life. Studies have shown that doing things you enjoy can increase your levels of serotonin and reduce stress.
It can also help you feel more positive and engaged in your life, and even improve your performance at work. In fact, research shows that people who enjoy their work are more likely to be optimistic and motivated, learn faster, make fewer mistakes, and improve business decisions.
So, if you are struggling with depression, try to take some time to do something that you enjoy doing. You will be surprised how much better you will feel and what a difference it will make for your mood. Just fifteen minutes can be enough to turn around your whole day!
2. Take a Break
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, taking a break may be what you need to recharge your batteries. Whether it’s learning something new or dancing in your living room, spending time on what you enjoy will rejuvenate your mood and make you feel refreshed.
In a busy world, it can be easy to neglect breaks. It can be hard to pause your work and relax, but it’s essential for your physical and mental health.
If you’re currently in a relationship, taking a break from your partner can help you reconnect and find out what’s best for both of you. However, it’s important to be on the same page regarding what the break will look like and how you’ll spend your time apart.
3. Spend Time Alone
Getting to know yourself and building self-confidence can be one of the best things you can do for your happiness. It will make you more likely to enjoy doing the things that you like, and find friends who you can bond with.
Being around other people can sometimes zap your energy and make you feel stressed or overwhelmed. Alone time helps you to unwind, process your feelings and thoughts, and separate yourself from the things that are causing you stress.
If you find yourself feeling lonely or depressed, it might be time to speak with a mental health professional about your situation. Therapy can be very helpful for overcoming feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as finding happiness in life.
4. Make a List of Happy Memories
One of the most effective ways to boost your mood is to remember or relive happy moments. A good memory triggers dopamine release, which in turn increases your serotonin levels and oxytocin.
A recent study found that reminiscing about good times in your life can actually help you ward off bad ones.
One of the most effective ways to do this is by making a list of the best (and worst) memories you can recall. You can use a chart, a notebook or a spreadsheet to get started. Be sure to include the oh so important Top 10 lists for each of your major life events such as your first job, your first car or your first date. If you do this regularly, you’ll be well on your way to a happier more contented and healthier you in no time!
5. Take a Moment to Breathe
Taking a moment to breathe is an often-overlooked way to calm down, reduce stress, and find happiness. Mental health professionals and yoga practitioners will tell you that it’s crucial to get your breathing right.
One technique yogis swear by is the practice of alternate nostril breathing, which calms intense emotions in just a few minutes. It’s said to be safe for any time of day, and it can be done in a sitting or lying position.
Another micro-practice that mental health experts recommend is to pick a favorite joy-replenishing activity, such as flower arranging or baking, and free associate it whenever you’re feeling stressed. This is said to rewire your brain for happiness and resilience, says mindfulness teacher Julie Potiker. This can be a quick break throughout the day, or it can become a daily habit, she adds.