How to Feel Happy and Loved

January 21, 2018 1 Comment

This year, as a team we've been trying to practice the act of GRATITUDE. This act was prompted by a video that I watched on one of Oprah's Super Soul Sunday from Shawn Achor, a Harvard-trained researcher on happiness. He found that by doing these 6 daily exercises for happiness he was able to change an 80 year old's state of happiness. He said that in just 21 Days, he can change a pessimist into an optimist! I'm often times a pessimist and have really been feeling a lot of doubt and fear creep into my life. So I'm in the process of trying these 6 techniques out.

Would you like to join our team in discovering what it takes to be happier this year? Here are 6 ways to do this.

Gratitude Exercises. Write down three things that you're thankful for. It doesn't have to be super profound, but something as simple as, "I am thankful for this cup of tea". The act of recalling something you're thankful for actually helps you look at what you do have in life and puts the focus on the positive.
Double Time. Remember one positive experience from the past day and spend two minutes writing it down in total detail. As you recall it, your brain labels it as meaningful and deepens the experience.
Build meaningful relationships: Take the time to be present with family and friends. These connections are the best predictors for success and health, and even life expectancy.
15 Minutes of Fun. Do 15 minutes of a fun cardio activity, like walking or jump roping or jumping jacks every day. At our studio, I have hula hoops for us to get the blood going when we're feeling a bit tired or run down! Did you know that the effect of cardio is as effective as taking anti-depressants?
Meditate or Pray. Every day, find just 2 minutes to stop what you're doing and just BREATHE. I actually like to do this in the morning right when I wake up. I find a word for the day and meditate on it for just 2 minutes while trying to focus on it. This has actually helped me focus my crazy scatter brain to make sure I have the right intention for the day.
Conscious act of kindness. At the beginning of every day, send a short email or text thanking someone you know. Did you know that our brains can be wired to feel good for actually giving love? I also love giving gifts randomly. Not necessarily for birthdays or Christmas, but during times when they're least expected. These somehow seem to mean even more to the recipient.