Habits that will make you happy
Happiness is different for everyone. A secure network of friends, the freedom to pursue your dreams or just the feeling of peace… all these are different manifestations of the same idea for different people. Regardless of your vision of the true happiness, it’s possible to live a happier, more satisfied life. Some changes to your habits can make you happy.
Habits matter. If you’ve ever tried to break a bad habit, you know very well how hard it is. The good news, however, is that good habits are just as deeply rooted. Why not work on making positive habits part of your routine?
Take a deep breath
You feel accumulated tension, your shoulders are tightening and you experience negative emotions building up dangerously. We have all found ourselves in a similar position at one point or another.
Instinct tell you to take a long, deep breath to calm down and experts urge you to listen, because it’s right. According to Harvard Health, deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
The next time you feel anxious or at your limits, follow these steps:
Close your eyes and try to envision a happy memory or a beautiful place. Take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Exhale slowly through your mouth or nose.
Repeat this process several times until you begin to feel calm. If you have difficulty taking slow, deliberate breaths, try to count to 5 with each inhale and exhale.
Food depending on the mood
You already know that food choices have an impact on your overall physical health. But certain foods can also affect your mental state.
For example, carbohydrates release serotonin, a “good-feeling” hormone. However, keep simple carbohydrates, foods high in sugar and starch, to a minimum, because this energy pulse is short and goes away easily.
Complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables, beans and whole grains, are better.
Lean meats, poultry, legumes and dairy products are high in protein. These foods release dopamine and norepinephrine, which boost energy and concentration.
Highly processed or fried foods tend to leave you with a feeling of frustration. Start by making a better food choice every day.
Recognize the difficulties
Positive attitude is generally a good thing but unpleasant things happen to everyone. It’s just a part of life.
If you receive bad news, make a mistake or just feel “down”, don’t try to pretend to be happy.
Recognize the feeling of sadness and let yourself experience it at the given moment.
Next, focus on what made you feel that way and what it might take to recover.
Would a deep breathing exercise help? A long walk outside? Discuss it with someone, maybe?
Let the moment pass and take care of yourself. Remember, no one is happy all the time.
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