What makes us happy? Typically the answer to this is our loved ones, or perhaps a hobby or ongoing project. Seeking simple ways to find happiness in life involves expanding on what we already love. In this article, we take a look at how we can build on existing passions and find new ones!
Mindfulness Is Happiness
Practicing mindfulness and meditation will help you to focus away from outside matters. Me-time in the form of self-indulgence and treats is important too – feeling special definitely cheers you up!
Develop Green Fingers
Gardening is great therapy. It teaches us to be patient, and to accept our place in nature. Birds, bees and trees provide a calming soundtrack, and there’s always something that will either lift your spirits, or bring peace of mind (or both).
Out And About
Being outside brings the mood-lifting benefits of light and space, and you don’t have to be in idyllic countryside. Take note of the wild flowers in pavement cracks, and identify them later. Listen for songbirds, or look up for birds of prey, and record your memories when the weather grounds you.
These simple activities provide exercise, too, whether you’re walking, running or cycling, improving your physical and mental health, and your mood.
Branch Out
Travel is just an extension of local explorations, and it really does broaden the mind. Even within your own region, you’ll discover new places. Go further, and take in stunning landscapes, or the diversity and culture of city life. Then the rest of the world is waiting with experiences you’ll never forget, even if you’re on a tight budget.
Take In Some Culture Or Be Creative
Immersing yourself in beauty is guaranteed to make you happy! A visit to an art gallery might find you standing in front of an image that moves you, or an installation that you connect with. Attempting your own creations will bring satisfaction, especially if you join a class or group, and the same applies to any craft that you’re longing to try.
Music feeds the soul, they say, and it’s true that it can move you – it doesn’t matter if it’s a disco classic from your past, a song with meaningful words, or a timeless aria. So sort through your CDs or go online. Live music of any kind is a memorable shared experience, and if you can play an instrument yourself, join a band or orchestra. If not, have fun learning, or if you can sing, sign up to a choir for the company of others.
Be Entertained
A trip to the theatre or cinema will transport you to another world, or give you food for thought. At home, enjoy a good box set or DVD, with the aid of a supply of chocolates or a glass of wine – bliss beckons!
Dance is uplifting to watch, whether it’s modern, ballet or ballroom, and it’s exhilarating to try yourself at home. You might want to get involved in amateur dramatics or a local dance group for maximum enjoyment.
Books, fiction or non-fiction, will allow your imagination to fly, and perhaps persuade you to participate in a book club or readers’ group. Or perhaps you would prefer to write your own story? In that case, a writers’ group could be a happy place for you.
Be Active
Exercise is essential for mental health as well as physical well-being. You might be a team player or an individualist, but don’t underestimate the euphoric effect of being a spectator in a crowd of like-minded people (especially if your team wins).
These are just a few of the simple ways to find happiness in life. Try whatever suits you and it may lead you on to something else – and then you could end up truly happy!
