Ten Tried-and-Tested Ways to Feel Happier Right Now

You can't just wait till you fall in love, get a new job or move into a great home. You want to be happier now. So take action. Here are ten things to do to put a smile on your face today. Once you're feeling happier, click here to feel healthier!

Take some exercise and fresh air. Walk, run, play a sport. But get outside, avoiding pollution, if you can. Exercising inside just doesn't have the same benefits.

Get some sunshine. If you just don't live in a sunny state plan to visit one instead.

Laugh. Listen to or watch a comedy. Or read a funny book. PG Wodehouse - the Jeeves and Wooster stories are highly recommended. Or watch DVDs of the TV series starring Hugh Laurie as Bertie Wooster.

Make a fuss of someone you love. You decide what to do and who to do it to!

Do something nice for a friend of neighbour. As above.

Arrange to meet someone whose company you enjoy. For tea, a Tequila Sunrise, walk in the park, film, game of chess....

Smell some fresh flowers, preferably growing wild. Freesias, jasmine, roses. Lovely. They'll always lift your spirits.

Take a decision you've been putting off. It's rattling around in your mind and you just can't decide. So do it. Once you've made that decision - the best one you can - you'll feel better.

Declutter a room you want to see tidy. This always makes everyone feel better.

Forgive yourself if you're feeling guilty. You shouldn't have done it, whatever it was, but unless it was a major crime, forgive yourself. If you can make amends, do that too.