“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.”
-Aristotle, ancient Greek philosopher, 384 - 322 BC
Happiness is a broad term that describes the experience of positive emotions, such as joy, contentment, and satisfaction.
Emerging research shows that being happy doesn’t just make you feel better — it’s also incredibly beneficial for your health.
These studies reveal that those who describe themselves as “generally happy people,” also have longer life expectancies, less chronic pain, and stronger immune systems.
Here are six scientifically proven ways to become happier:
Express gratitude: You can increase your happiness by focusing on the things you are grateful for. One way to practice gratitude is to write down three things you are grateful for at the beginning or end of each day.
Get active: Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, is the most effective type of exercise for increasing happiness. Walking or playing tennis won’t just be good for your physical health, it’ll help boost your mood, too. Brook will automatically track your steps for you, and you can log additional activity by clicking the green ‘walking’ shoe icon.
Get a good night’s rest: Lack of sleep can have a negative effect on your happiness. If you struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep, then check out these tips for getting a better night’s sleep. Brook tracks your sleep and charts your sleep history in your dashboard, so you can make sure you’re getting enough ZZZs!
Spend time outside: Head outside for a walk in the park, or get your hands dirty in the garden. It takes as little as five minutes of outdoor exercise to significantly improve your mood.
Meditate: Regular meditation can increase happiness and also provide a host of other benefits, including reducing stress and improving sleep. Explore ideas for starting meditation, and other ways to de-stress here.
Eat a healthier diet: Studies show that the more fruits and vegetables you eat, the happier you will be. Ours bodies and minds are indeed all connected, it seems. Check out these fruit- and veggie-packed blood-sugar-friendly snack ideas. You can log your meal and snacks on the Brook app to make sure you’re getting your happy-mood food for the day!
What would you add to this list? Let us know!
