Choose one day where you truly prioritize self-care, and make it a recurring part of your routine. Maybe Monday nights are your evening for reality TV shows and ice cream. Or one hour every other Wednesday is reserved for meeting with a counselor. Or you start every Sunday with a jog around the neighborhood. Self-care is an important part of cultivating a happy, healthy you.
Small doses of silence have the power to completely transform your mood. When you talk less, you listen more: You appreciate the different noises around you, or the task in front of you. And you learn that being quiet creates much-needed space in this very noisy world—space for happiness to pour in, be it through reflecting on the little, beautiful things, or creating something new.
Sitting in front of a computer, driving a car, and constantly looking down at a cell phone are all activities that do a number on your shoulders over time, leading to aches and pains that make it hard to relax and enjoy the moment. An easy solution? Sit up tall, and, as you breathe in, roll your shoulders all the way up toward your ears. As you exhale, let them roll down and back.
Listening to happy music absolutely makes you feel happier—it’s a no-brainer. Upbeat tunes encourage you to remember positive memories (often ones that are linked to particular songs) and also help you see the positives in the present moment. So turn up the music!
When you’re feeling low or in need of some love, giving yourself a squeeze is one of the simplest ways to lift your mood. After all, physical touch releases a dose of oxytocin: a hormone with antidepressant-like effects. Reach your hands for opposite shoulders and wrap your arms around your body, then hug yourself tightly. Stay in that position until the happy feels take hold.
Going to your local public library is completely free, and gives you access to all kinds of books, magazines, and other media to stretch your mind. Not only will you feel a little smarter, you’ll also feel more connected to your community, and energized by the thrill of hunting through the aisles for an interesting new read. Many libraries even have additional programming and activities such as writing seminars and author events. You can learn something new—or find a quiet nook to kick up your feet and relax with a book.