21 ways to be happy

Article Courtesy: DAILY MIRROR - Article published in “Bangalore Times” dated 16-10-2008

Life may feel miserable but,in many ways, we’ve never had it so good. So cast off those blues with our guide to instant joy

Paying your EMIs, feeding the family and paying for the odd treat is getting tough as bills soar. You’d think that coping with the credit crunch would have us all sick with worry… But, in fact, we’re doing really well — fitter, stronger, healthier and living longer. “Life expectancy is so good that eliminating all accidents and infectious diseases would only raise it by a further two years,” says Prof Steve Jones, of University College London. Most of us are warm, well-fed and healthy. Still miserable? Try these to be happy...
BOOST YOUR SELF-ESTEEM
Identify what you’re good at and do it. Self-esteem is linked to happiness and surveys show the feeling of success is a common source of joy.
AVOID INFO OVERLOAD
A study found that people who multi-task are likelier to have high blood pressure. So instead of talking on the phone while picking up the kids’ toys, sit down and focus on the conversation.
WASH YOUR HAIR
A century ago, women washed their hair once a month using borax or egg yolks. Enjoy modern haircare products and wash your tresses every day. Clean hair makes you feel good.
MAKE TIME FOR FRIENDS
People with a circle of supportive friends are likelier to have healthier blood pressure, cholesterol levels and stress hormone levels than those with two or fewer close friends.
TAKE PART
Feel what you think doesn’t matter? It does. Have your say by voting.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
Focus on what you’ve got, not what you’re missing. A study found that people who took the time to count their blessings once a week boosted their mood and improved their health and energy levels. And it relieved pain and fatigue, too.
GET RID OF THAT NIGGLING TASK
Visit the doctor, answer a difficult email or buy something you need. Crossing an irritating item off your to-do list will give you a rush of energy.
PAMPER A POOCH
Walking and stroking pets can relieve stress, lower blood pressure and heart rates. One study showed pets are better than spouses at relieving stress.
ENJOY YOUR JOB
In 1908, a typical working day was 14 hours with few breaks. There was no employment regulation and no minimum wage. Still hate your job?
GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Few of us get enough sleep and that makes us grumpy. Getting into bed by 8 pm one night with a book — and turning the light out an hour later — can do more for your mood than any amount of therapy.
SING IN THE SHOWER
Music activates parts of the brain that produce happiness, the same parts activated by sex and food. So in the morning tune the radio to your favourite station and sing along.
VISIT A QUIET PLACE
Museums, parks, libraries and places of worship provide islands of peace in a frantic world. Find a quiet place near your home and make it your secret hideaway.
STOP WORRYING ABOUT YOUR AGE
Celebrate all your birthdays. Remember when you were 10 how 21 seemed ancient? Enjoy your age, because you won’t be this young again.
IGNORE THE STOCK MARKET
Chinese researchers have found a direct link between the daily performance of the stock market and the mental health of those who follow it. If you don’t have money invested, ignore it. If you do, remember time heals financial wounds. Give your investments time — and give yourself a break.
HAVE A GOOD CRY
Bottling up emotions can lead to a build-up of suppressed anxiety and anger. Let your emotion come out when you’re upset and have a good cry.
LIGHT AN OIL BURNER
Getting a good nose-full of lavender aids deep relaxation. Find a scent that soothes you and burn it when you’re relaxing or put a few drops of essential oil into your bath.
SAY “I LOVE YOU”
Tell those close to you that you love them. A little praise never hurts.
GIVE YOURSELF SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO
It may be just a walk in the park or reading a book. Build these treats into your daily life.
VOLUNTEER TO HELP OUT
Helping others less fortunate that yourself puts your own problems into perspective.
CHANGE YOUR THINKING
People who survive a terminal illness, accident or witness a tragedy have a different perspective on life. Many say that they no longer leave anything until later. They travel now, learn a new skill now, contact an old friend the same day the thought pops into their head. Follow their lead - try living for today and not tomorrow.
WATCH IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE
This classic 1946 film stars James Stewart as George Bailey who, facing financial troubles, is about to commit suicide when he meets his guardian angel Clarence. It guarantees a smile