Some people struggle to feel good on a daily basis. It could be because they have an emotional reaction from a traumatic experience or it's due to (Seasonal Affective Disorder) the change in the season which could result in feelings of depression, a lack of energy or drive to do activities. Despite the reason you may be struggling to feel good, learn how to feel happier.
How To Feel Happier
1. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is something you should do daily. Actually, you should make it a habit for two reasons. First, gratitude is the pathway to positivity and second, whatever you are grateful for multiplies.
Keep in mind, the feelings of gratitude should be sincere. You can't fake feelings and trust me, you will know when it's genuine because your mood will improve.
For the past few months, I've been using the exercise below and it instantly changes my mood!! As a matter of fact, I am addicted to it. So much so, that I now ask my husband everyday what he is grateful for; it's our form of prayer!!
2. Dance To Your Favourite Music
Dancing to your favourite song is a sure way to make you feel good. I started doing this whenever I was alone to lift my spirits, after watching my husband dance in the kitchen many nights while I cooked dinner. I thought “he looks so happy, I should try it.”
Honestly, it felt weird in the beginning because I was out of my comfort zone and I kept imagining people watching me thinking “this girl is crazy.” However, halfway through the song, I let go and lost myself in the music…..it felt sooooo good!!!
Furthermore, dance psychologist, Dr. Peter Lovatt of the University of Hertfordshire, states that “You appear to get a much bigger release of endorphins when you dance than during other forms of exercise; it also connects with the emotional centres in the brain. For many people, dancing prompts an emotional release – often that’s uncomplicated happiness, while for some it can make them cry. It’s cathartic – a letting go of pent-up emotions.”
So don't wait until it's an occasion to dance. There are no rules, put on your favourite music when you're feeling blaw or grumpy and dance yourself into a great mood!!
There are shortcuts to happiness and dancing is one of them. ~Anonymous
3. Meditate
I am living proof that meditation does uplift your mood and make you feel happier. I have practiced meditation everyday for the past four months and it is transforming my life!!
Meditation is good for your mind, body and soul because it helps you disconnect from your environment and connect with your inner self. It can help you disconnect from worry, guilt, stress, self doubt and insecurity. Most important, science and research has proven that it helps relieve pain, anxiety, depression, stress, improves sleep patterns, increases your focus, patience, mental clarity, connection with your higher self and can literally transform your personality.
According to Buddhist monk, Kelsang Gyatso “The Purpose of meditation is to make our mind calm and peaceful. If our mind is peaceful, we will be free from worries and mental discomfort, and so we will experience true happiness. But if our mind is not peaceful, we will find it very difficult to be happy, even if we are living in the very best conditions.”
There are many forms of meditation specific to how you want to transform. I recommend to start with guided mediations. These are some of the meditations I practice each morning.
- Complete Body Healing
- Subconscious Mind Re-Programing – Positive Living
- Let Go of Subconscious Guilt, Worries, Anxiety, Bitterness, Frustration, Resentment
- Creating A New You – Personal Growth & Manifestation
- Chakra Activation – Clearing & Healing, Balancing Your Chakra
- Surrender – Let Go & Free Yourself From Suffering
4. Spend Time With Positive, Uplifting People
We adapt to the environment we are in. Meaning, if you spend time with people who are happy and positive, their high vibrational frequency or energy, feels really good to be around. However, negative people have a low vibrational frequency or energy which can feel sad and depressing to be around. Thus, if you want to feel good most of the time, naturally you choose to surround yourself with happy uplifting people!
Awhile ago, I made a decision to spend the majority of my time with people who make me feel good, who make me laugh, who are full of optimism and a zest for life. I want to have high energy all the time because it truly makes my life better.
It may be difficult to avoid negative people especially if it's family, but you can still love and care for someone from a distance. You don't have to be rude or obvious, just simply spend most of your time with people who make you feel good. You deserve it!!
5. Snuggle With A Pet
Studies have found that pets make you feel positive and that brushing up against your pet raises the feel-good chemical oxytocin which reduces feelings of stress, anxiety or depression. It's true, whenever I am experiencing stress, I instantly get on the floor and snuggle with my dog and it makes me feel so much better! I am so grateful for Lilly and Morty's unconditional love!!
To sum, you have a divine right to be happy. So, if you are having an off day practice gratitude, meditate, dance to your favourite music, spend time with someone that makes you feel good or snuggle with your pet!
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