Happiness - why do some people seem to always have it while for others it remains so elusive? That endorphin high of a pay raise or promotion lasts for a few weeks but very soon, we begin to feel discontented again. We've all been there but why are we humans built this way? In this post, i will be sharing some scientifically backed tips to help you achieve sustained happiness in your life.
1. Spend at least 20 minutes outdoors
According to a series of studies published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, people reported that being out in nature made them feel more alive. So instead of reaching for a cup of coffee the next time you feel lethargic, go for a walk in the garden or forest. What's interesting about the research is that the scientists took into account the benefits of exercise and found that simply being surrounded by nature improved our vitality and happiness.
2. Stop shopping till you drop
As much as retailers would have us believe in "retail therapy", there is no such thing. Instead, researchers have found the opposite to be true! Consumerism, it turns out, is a big happiness suppressant. This makes sense intuitively. After the happiness boost of getting the latest iPhone, one realizes that there really isn't that much difference from the previous version of the phone. And soon, the happiness boost comes crashing down. What goes up must surely come down after all. So if you're ever considering some retail therapy for yourself, think again! You could save a pretty penny and be happier for it.
3. Set your room temperature to 57 degrees Fahrenheit (13.9 C)
According to Japanese researchers in a study called "Weather and Individual Happiness", the optimal temperature for happiness was found to be 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Interestingly, both colder and warmer temperatures negatively impacted happiness. This seems to fly in the face of all those tropical paradise holiday dreams i've been having but that's what the study based on a survey seems to suggest.
4. Embrace adversity
This may be surprising to many. Those who have had to overcome adversity in their lives tend to be happier than those who have had it smooth-sailing. This may seem counter-intuitive at first. Isn't it better to have an easier life? Not quite.
Overcoming adversity in itself, can make us happier but we need to note to fulfill two key conditions first. The first is that we need to get some distance away from the adverse condition. The second is that we must had been able to make sense of the adversity and challenges we faced.
In the words of Friedrich Nietzsche, "That which does not kill us outright makes us stronger."
5. Exercise!
I wasn't sure whether to mention the obvious, because everyone knows that exercise is beneficial for improving mood. The main reason for this happiness is the release of endorphins, which are neurochemicals produced by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain.
Another interesting study found that patients with depression who were treated with exercise instead of medication were 50% less likely to relapse.
Thank you for reading these not so well know facts about happiness. Happiness is a choice and I hope these tips help you find joy in your life!
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