While some factors and circumstances that affect happiness are beyond our control, there are some actions that can amplify it.
In this opportunity, we propose 10 simple habits that, according to scientific evidence, could increase your level of satisfaction and your positive emotions.
1. Music
Numerous studies suggest that listening to music is an effective way to reduce stress and increase our productivity, however, we should not restrict ourselves to hearing only “happy” genres.
As reported by Life Hack, the most melancholy and sad melodies act as a stabilizer of mood and emotional support, in addition to functioning as an excellent method of catharsis.
2. Drink coffee
Caffeine has many benefits for your mental and physical health. Besides having antidepressant properties and improving your mood, it reduces the risk of colon cancer, among other types, decreases the chances of suffering from diabetes, and even can reduce the effects of Parkinson’s.
3. Watch (more!) Videos of animals
While many people watched videos of animals to distract or procrastinate, the scientific evidence showed that this simple activity implies more benefits than we thought.
Numerous studies have found that contemplating photographs and videos of puppies and kittens not only increases positive feelings, but also improves concentration and productivity, according to Life Hack.
4. Express your gratitude
Science has shown that sharing and writing about the things for which we are grateful to improve our mood, in addition to generating feelings of optimism and satisfaction.
On the other hand, taking note of our negative thoughts on a piece of paper and then throwing it away is also a very beneficial activity, as well as cathartic.
The reason? According to studies, getting rid of our worries in a “physical” way could diminish the control they exercise over us.
5. Take a walk and enjoy the fresh air
Practicing outdoor activities and visiting green spaces are two excellent options to improve your mood and free yourself from stress.
Even the simple fact of contemplating landscape images stimulates the parts of your brain associated with happiness, positivity and emotional stability.
However, keep in mind that looking at photographs of beautiful beaches cannot replace sun exposure: take a walk around your neighborhood or stay in front of a window for a few minutes to get the vitamin D your body requires.
6. Exercise
Practicing exercises regularly will only sculpt your body but also your psyche. How? Physical activity generates antibodies, the proteins responsible for protecting our immune system and fighting diseases, and also increases the level of endorphins in our blood, which will improve your mood. I chose one of these 50 free apps for sports and start today!
7. Help others and consent to your affections
Being nice to others will definitely help you feel better about yourself. In fact, science has shown that when we perform “acts of kindness” our body generates such substances as oxytocin, known as the “love hormone”, and endorphins, associated with positive moods.
Whether you do a little action, like giving up a seat in the collective or praising a co-worker, or something more elaborate, like giving a gift to a friend or participating in volunteer activities, remember that everything counts!
8. Perfume your house
While inhaling scents like orange or lavender can reduce anxiety and improve mood, science has that that decorating your home with flowers and lighting candles could increase positive emotions and decrease stress.
9. Sleep more and better
A deep rest session is a vital factor in achieving overall well-being. In fact, research shows that not getting enough sleep can lead to lower levels of optimism and can also harm your academic and work performance.
10. Adopt a pet
The scientific evidence indicates that people who have pets are happier, lead more active lives and are less compared to those who do not.
Also, many studies suggest that dogs would have the ability to detect diseases such as epilepsy and cancer in their hosts before symptoms manifest.
