Tips to Improve Health by Increasing Happiness
This information was reviewed and approved by Kristen E. Holm, PhD, MPH, Kristen E. Holm, PhD, MPH (8/26/2016).
Smile Therapy
The mind is powerful and can influence your health in good and bad ways. Negative feelings and stress can suppress the immune system, while smiling and thinking positive can improve your health. Here is a list of different things you can do to increase positive thoughts and happiness.
14 Ways to Increase Happiness
Sleep
Make sleep your #1 priority and you will perform better and be less sensitive to negativity.
Meditate
Focus on breathing, sounds, music, an object or activity to rewire your brain for happiness.
Journal
Write good memories for positive reinforcement and negative events to reduce their impact.
Shower
Take a warm shower before bedtime to relax your mind and body.
Vent
Voice concerns to improve mental health.
Relax
Eat dark chocolate, chew gum and exercise to manage stress hormones and metabolism.
Observe
View pictures of nature or get 15 minutes of sunshine a day to boost, mood and memory.
Concentrate
Do crossword or Sudoku puzzles, or other games help relieve stress and improve focus.
Smell
Stop and smell the roses, coffee, baking bread or whatever brings a smile to your face.
Drink
Drink more water, less alcohol and no caffeine after 2 p.m. to sleep better and be healthier.
Laugh
Make time to laugh with others, while watching or listening to a funny show.
Smile
Smiling, even during a hard time, can reduce pain, and improve mood and thinking.
Move
Exercise is a dependable mood booster; take a 10-minute walk to reduce stress.
Help
Helping others produces the single most reliable momentary increase in happiness.
This information has been approved by Kristen Holm, PhD, August 2016.