HAPPINESS

Happiness is that feeling that comes over you when you know life is good and you can’t help but smile.

Life is supposed to be a blissful experience; our brains are hardwired to seek pleasure and avoid pain. In fact, when we’re happy, our brains release specific neurochemicals to encourage us to stay in a constant state of happiness.

A number of studies have examined the components of life which equate with happiness. Here we talk about a few ways you can live your life to stimulate the production of these neurochemicals, and live a happy life.

1. Focus on positive thinking.

To find long-term happiness, you need to retrain your brain from a negative mindset to a positive mindset. Try these things: Spend one to two minutes looking for positives in your life. Do this three times a day for 45 days, and your brain will start doing it automatically.

Choose a positive mantra for the day — something you will repeat to yourself, such as “Today is beautiful” or “I feel grateful for all I have.” And when things go south, take a moment to try and see it from a positive light. Never underestimate the importance of recognizing the silver linings in life.

2. Celebrate little victories.

Life is full of ups and downs, but in between we have a lot of little victories that go unnoticed. Take a moment to celebrate these small wins.

3. Practice mindfulness.

Mindfulness mediation works by bringing your awareness and attention to the present moment. It’s about being nonjudgmental and accepting how you are feeling. Practicing mindfullness means being present, aware and curious. Accepting what we are going through decreases stress and helps us see situations for what they are. Through mindfulness, we can find peace and affirmation in ourselves.

4. Be creative.

You may think of artists as being moody and depressed, but studies show that engaging in creative activities on a regular basis actually helps foster a happier mindset. Those who spend time using their imagination and being creative have more enthusiasm and are more likely to have feelings of long-term happiness and well-being. Such creative actvities can include writing, painting, drawing and musical performance.

5. Accept imperfection.

Many of us strive for perfection — we desire to push ourselves to be our best. But in order to be a truly happy person, you must embrace the imperfection that is part of daily life. Perfection is impossible, and holding ourselves and others to these standards is futile. We will always end up feeling let down. Accept that life is imperfect and recognize that there is beauty and grace in that imperfection.

WATCH THE VIDEO AND FIND YOUR HAPPINESS SOURCE