Nine ways to make happiness a habit

Many of us go through the motions of life and can’t seem to find true happiness. Where does this bliss come from? Does it come from some big promotion? You don’t need to change your entire life to find happiness. Here are a few simple and practical ways to become happier. Start with these habits suggested by Life Hack and increase the joy you find in everyday living.

Retail therapy is just  a facade



Put down the plastic and step away from the cash register! Consumerism is the biggest obstacle to happiness around the world. Retail therapy is only a temporary fix to make you happy. You may experience the joy of instant gratification when purchasing something you want, but, as the saying goes, you can’t buy happiness. Often times, shopping will lead to guilt or jealousy because you can’t afford a certain product.

Hit the gym



Burning off calories and strengthening your muscles only touches the surface of the benefits of working out. Underneath all of your physical components lie some awesome chemicals called endorphins. When you break a sweat, these endorphins are released, and they bring about a feel-good reaction that promotes happiness. That’s why healthy people are generally 20% happier than the average person. Make a mix playlist of your favorite songs and hit the gym.

Eat bananas



What gives bananas their star-power is the amount of tryptophan and tyrosine they contain, which change into the hormone serotonin. Eating one banana can calm your body and mind while giving you the right amount of energy and brain power to face the day.

Pray



Praying regularly can actually boost your mood. It grants you time for reflection, causing you to put your worries and stresses on hold. Praying can put you in a better, more optimistic mood and put your issues into perspective.

Volunteer



It goes without saying that lending a helping hand is a reward in itself. Using your skills and expertise to assist the less fortunate can boost your happiness. After all, you’ve accomplished something for the greater good.

Hang out with friends



Laughter is one of the best prescriptions for daily happiness. Find a group of friends and enjoy a distraction-free evening reminiscing and talking about your lives together. Avoid gossip and venting about problems that plague you let the conversation shift to something more light-hearted.

Have a plan for the day



Having a set schedule can alleviate stress and tension throughout your day. Plan your meals a week in advance and cook ahead on the weekends. Each evening, set aside a few minutes to ready clothing and items that you need for the next day. Keeping your own needs in mind is a great way to stay organised and in control of your life so you can enjoy each moment.

Healthy living 



Eating a well-balanced meal can keep your metabolism going strong all day long. This will give you enough energy to sustain your daily routines and feel great. Strive to eat as naturally as possible. Don’t forget that banana!

Meditate



Tap into your inner wisdom in the morning for an easier and happier start to your day. Through focusing on positive thoughts, you can train yourself to view your accomplishments, your body and your relationships in a positive light. Breathe deeply.  

Compiled by Saman Javed. 

Published in The Express Tribune, April 11^th, 2014.

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