The United Nations established the International Day of Happiness on March 20 in 2013. The day was created to recognise the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world. Since then the day has become a way to open up discussions about what happiness is and how we can spread happiness throughout the world.
To bring some extra happiness to your day, we’d like to offer some suggestions of things that you can do at home which are proven to boost people’s moods and beat stress.
Do small things that make you happy every day.
This may seem very self-evident, but doing something that you enjoy will make you happy! It doesn’t have to be time consuming or a major event, research shows that regularly doing small things that you enjoy leads to ongoing feelings of happiness. So take 5 minutes and write yourself a list of things that you like to do – maybe that’s having a coffee with a friend, going for a walk or having a hot bath.
While you’re doing that thing that you enjoy, take the time to really appreciate it; pay full attention to the moment. Afterwards, start planning the thing that you’ll do tomorrow and let yourself look forward to it. You’ll notice that your whole mood improves.
Take 5 minutes to meditate
Even a short break for meditation will bring benefits into your life. For an extra boost use the mantras from the Buddhist’s metta (loving kindness) meditation. Just find a space where you won’t be disturbed for a few minutes and sit comfortably. Allow yourself to breath regularly and repeat the following statements to yourself:
- May I be filled with loving kindness.
- May I be safe from inner and outer dangers.
- May I be well in body and mind.
- May I be at ease and happy.
If your mind wanders, just bring it back gently to the statements.
Write your thoughts down
People who take the time to journal report increased feelings of well-being, better grades and healthier immune systems. The process of writing allows us to explore our feelings and put events behind us. This allows us to stop ruminating and to move on with our lives.
If you’re feeling like you could benefit from a boost in happiness, you might consider hypnotherapy. Working together with a hypnotherapist you can explore the root of your feelings, whether it is a situation, a physical issue, a past experience or a relationship. You’ll then explore what changes feel right for you and make a plan to work towards that outcome.
To find a qualified and insured hypnotherapist that can help you achieve your well-being and happiness goals, contact an NCH hypnotherapist near you by using the NCH directory.