SPEND TIME WITH A FRIEND

Whether you have a deep bench of soulmate friends from years past or you’re branching out with a new squad, friendship is a key part of happiness. With your friends, you can give and receive support, laugh, reflect on the serious stuff, bond over adventures, and stay active—all of which improve your mood, keep stress in check, and boost your physical health too.

Schedule a day, afternoon, or even a five-minute coffee break to hang out IRL with a good friend. You can spend the time catching up and reminiscing about good times, sharing the personal struggles you’ve both been facing recently, or enjoying a fun activity together. Maybe you both love hiking, or there’s a beginners’ painting class you’ve been meaning to try. No matter how you choose to pass the time, you (and your friend) will walk away feeling on top of the world. You may even make a habit of scheduling regular get-togethers to keep your connection strong no matter where life takes you.

GROW A GARDEN

Planting a garden, whether in your backyard, on a windowsill, or in a patio space, is extremely rewarding. Tending to the plants and watching them grow under your care makes you feel happy, and you’ll love having fresh produce within arm’s reach (if you choose to grow veggies) or different fresh flavors to enhance your meals (if you grow herbs). Plus, you save time and money spent at the grocery store!

EXPLORE REIKI HEALING

Reiki, an ancient form of Japanese energy healing, uses special hand placements to release negativity and promote total wellness in your body. You can learn Reiki healing movements online to use on yourself, or enjoy a Reiki massage at a spa.

REFLECT ON A MISTAKE

So you made a mistake—you’re only human! Instead of dwelling on what you feel you did wrong, reflect on any lessons you can learn from it. The goal isn’t to be perfect, but to grow from your mistakes. Seeing the positive side to a tough situation is key in manifesting happiness no matter what life throws your way.

FIND A NEW PERSONAL SCENT

Certain scents are linked to happy feelings (and more self-confidence!). Note what you already gravitate toward: the scent of the apple hand soap in your bathroom, the fragrance of a rosebush, or the smell of freshly baked cookies. Then, use those cues to guide you toward perfumes or colognes that incorporate those scents.

BLAST MUSIC IN THE CAR

Listening to loud music in a small space like your car makes you feel like you’re in the song itself. It gets you pumped up and instantly turns your mood around. Turn up the radio and let the music work its magic.

SEE A COMEDY SHOW

Live comedy events are one-of-a-kind experiences: You laugh out loud and share in great jokes with others, lowering your stress levels and releasing those feel-good endorphins. Want the chance to go onstage and land a joke of your own? Some venues also have open mic events!

HOLD SOMEONE’S HAND

It seems like such a small thing, but the act of holding hands can make you incredibly happy. It strengthens your bond with another person, and makes you feel safe and loved. The physical touch on the nerve endings in your fingertips also relieves pain and stress. Take the hand of a friend, partner, or family member, and hold on.

SING OUT LOUD

Singing is a workout for your lungs and vocal cords that strengthens your immune system and sends more oxygen to your brain. Singing also distracts you from whatever’s on your mind. Best of all, when you sing, your brain releases endorphins that make you feel happy; you can belt a tune out loud on your own or harmonize with a friend!

LEARN CPR

CPR training isn’t just for medical professionals; it’s for anyone who wants to be prepared should someone need immediate help. It’s also a way to feel empowered and confident in yourself and your abilities. A CPR course literally teaches you how to save a life!

ATTEND A RELIGIOUS SERVICE

Being part of a spiritual community can make you feel happier with your life and more connected to a higher power. Having some form of faith, whether traditional or New Age, also supports your ability to handle the unexpected ups and downs of life.

LOOK AT PICTURES OF CUTE BABIES

Also known as “the power of puppies,” looking at pictures of cute babies (either human or animal!) is proven to relieve stress and boost your mood. Experts have also found that it improves your ability to execute detailed tasks, so you have full permission to take a break from whatever you’re doing to prioritize that adorable kitten video.

JOIN A BOOK CLUB

Meeting with other readers to dissect the latest bestseller is a great excuse to obsess about something you love, and also form relationships with people who share a common interest. You can make new friends, explore all kinds of topics, and stay sharp on current events and what’s popular.