Simple Changes to Make You Happier

From a scientific standpoint the act of breathing delivers oxygen to your brain and other vital organs. If, for example, you're stressed out and breathing heavy, shallow breaths, your body and your brain are not getting the right amount of oxygen. This can make the feelings of stress stronger and cause discomfort. By learning to breathe deep, even breaths regularly, and especially when faced with a situation that makes you feel stressed, angry, or hurt, you will be able to stay calmer than you would normally and this can help you make level headed decisions if you need to. Try breathing for four counts in and out through your nose and out your mouth. This will help you remain calm, cool, and collected.

Crack a smile.

Do you know the easiest way to get a stranger to smile? Smile at him first. Walking around with a smile on your face may seem silly but just the act of smiling can raise your spirits and those of others. As you walk/drive down the street try smiling broadly in general and specifically at individuals you catch eye contact with. You'll be surprised how many people smile back and you can feel good about spreading the joy.

Try exercising.

Did you know that when you work out you release Serotonin? Serotonin is what triggers chemical reactions in your brain related to happiness. So by working out you're staying healthy, getting fit, and feeling happier. In fact, studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are able to recover quicker from mild bouts of depression. Exercise is also related to the creation of new brain neurons so it can help maintain overall brain health.

Think about the things you have.

Mediate daily or as needed on the things in your life that you have. I'm referring to the people, places, and possibly the things that you are grateful to have in your life. Sometimes you can get caught up in what you don't have and completely forget about the things you do. Try saying thank you, in your mind or aloud, for the things you love. This will strengthen the habit of being grateful and help you focus on what makes you smile.

Focus on others.

It may seem strange but by focusing on others you can find more happiness in your life. When you focus too much on yourself its easy to start feeling like what you're going through is unusual and unique to you, even if many other people have and are going through the same thing. The Dahli Lama once told the story of how he had helped a grieving mother, who had come to him in desperation; get over the loss of her child. He asked her to find a household that had not experienced the loss of a loved one. In her realization that everyone experiences loss she was able to come to terms with her grief.

I can hear the skeptics now and maybe it's not as simple as I make it sound. What if it is? What if it doesn't matter? I really believe that by having a positive attitude you can change the way you experience your day and your life. Just remaining calm during stressful situations can help your troubles pass by quicker and with less of an effect on your happiness.