Tips for a healthier happier day

Posted May 04, 2020

In today’s world, we often forget to do the little things that can often make a big difference in our health and happiness. Typically, it is the simplest things that can do the most to help us feel our best every day and all year long. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for a healthier, happier day:

Make plans to do something you love. Research shows that having something to look forward to makes you happier. So, on a rough day, try to make a plan to do something you like. While you may not be able to do it that day, having something great on your calendar gives you something to look forward to—whether it’s connecting with a friend or an at-home yoga class, as long as it’s something YOU enjoy doing.

Do something to make progress, no matter how small. Try to tackle a small task that makes you feel like you’re making progress – organize your desk, clean your fridge, or write those emails you’ve been putting off, anything that gets a small, specific task completed. Research shows that feeling productive makes us happier.

Create a daily ritual of reflection and growth. Setting aside just 10 minutes a day for you will do wonders to eliminate daily stress and anxiety. Meditate for five minutes in the morning to start your day, take a few minutes to relax before bed, or read a book that inspires you.

Eat mindfully. In our high-stressed world, there can be a tendency to eat while distracted and shovel in more food than we need. Avoiding eating when distracted and eat more slowly, which will help digestion.  

Get up and move!  Aerobic exercise, including something as uncomplicated and low-impact as walking, is associated with a variety of benefits for the body and the brain, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases and anti-anxiety and mood-enhancing effects. Aim for a total of about 30 minutes every day.

Practice the art of appreciation. Spend more time focusing not on what you don’t have, but on what you do. Our mood can be lifted by giving thanks for anything from our friends and family, to a beautiful landscape or sunset.

Be social. It is important to socialize and stay in contact with friends and loved ones while practicing social distancing, whether it be over the phone or via video chat. Invest time and energy into your key relationships. Relationships are a big part of being and staying happy.