Stress isn’t just annoying — it can be downright dangerous to your health. High levels of stress might be comparable to smoking, according to a June 2023 study in the journal of the American Psychosomatic Society. On the flip side, happiness is associated with a wide variety of physical health benefits.
Being intentional about focusing on positivity can go a long way when things are stressful. It sounds small, but it can make a big difference in boosting your satisfaction and mood. I’m not talking about big, sweeping changes to your life. It can be as easy as making yourself laugh and meeting up with friends.
Nourishing your mental health will help you connect more deeply with others, reduce anxiety and boost your confidence. Small things you can do right now will make a difference, and it won’t cost a thing. Start with these seven happiness hacks today.
Very few things in life are promised, but stress-free times are unfortunately guaranteed. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or stressed out, but you can control how you respond to the strain. Implementing relaxation techniques into your daily routine can help you manage stress.
Meditation is a popular way to relax as it can help reach a state of calm, decrease stress and improve your mood. Some people even use music to guide them through their meditation sessions. If meditation isn’t your thing, deep breathing, reading or taking a hot bath are also popular relaxation techniques. No matter how you choose to relax, try to make it a habit.
2. Practice gratitude
Including gratitude in your life is a way to create a positive outlook on your life. More than that, it has tangible benefits for your mental health, including reducing stress, lessening depression symptoms and boosting your mood.
Gratitude is a simple concept but sometimes can be difficult to keep up with. Take time for self-reflection and share your gratitude with the people around you. If you like to journal, regularly write down a list of things you’re grateful for.