22 Mar Top 10 Habits of Healthy Happy People

Whether you’re one of those lucky people who always seems to wake up on the right side of the bed; or someone who struggles daily with low energy and mood; there are a few key healthy habits you can put in place, which will make you a genuinely happier, healthier person. A healthy body and a happy psyche go hand-in-hand; happy people are those who work at staying happy and keeping healthy, with daily habits that support the wellbeing of their body, their mind and their spirit. Check out these 10 simple daily tips for improved wellness and a greater sense of happiness – it’s easier than you might think.

1. Healthy Eating Habits

What you put in is what you get out; the food you eat has a direct impact on your energy levels and therefore your mood. Junk food and highly processed snacks will cause energy spikes and dips, leaving you feeling sluggish and irritable. Meanwhile fresh whole foods give you real nutrition, which will keep your body happy and your mind focused. Every time you eat is an opportunity to nourish yourself; and nourishing yourself is a wonderfully beneficial act of self-love.

2. Exercise & Outdoor Time

Exercising releases the feel-good chemicals known as endorphins; happy people make exercise a priority, and therefore enjoy a regular endorphin boost. Just 30 minutes of exercise a day can help to relieve stress, anxiety and depression, by boosting your brain’s serotonin and dopamine levels. And that’s not even mentioning all the wonderful physical benefits of exercise! A daily dose of fresh air is also important; reconnecting with nature helps to renew a depleted mind, body and spirit according to the Journal of Environmental Psychology. Step out for a walk instead of reaching for another cup of coffee – your body will thank you.

3. Meditation & Mindfulness

Taking some time out daily to meditate and clear your mind helps to calm frayed nerves and balance the emotions. Meditation also helps to lower high blood pressure, decrease tension-related pain (eg headaches, stiff muscles), and even boost the immune system. Possibly most importantly, regular meditation practice helps to keep you grounded and focus on the now; rather than worrying about the past or the future. This present moment awareness and mindfulness is a big factor in keeping you happy, relaxed and emotionally healthy.

4. Keeping it Clean & Simple

Nothing drags you down in body and mind quite like clutter, be it physical or emotional. Keeping your home space and surroundings free of unnecessary clutter and “stuff” will keep feelings of chaos, stress, guilt and frustration to a minimum. Happier people tend to live more minimally, focussing on the things they truly need and value.

5. Smart Sleeping Habits

It almost sounds too simple; but going to sleep at the same time every evening and waking up at the same time every day really does work wonders, for your mood and your wellbeing. This healthy habit will regulate your body’s circadian rhythms, helping you to feel more energised, and reducing the struggle of waking up on those early mornings. More energy means better productivity and focus, which means a happier, healthier state of mind.

6. An Attitude of Gratitude

Expressing thankfulness for what you have always helps you to appreciate it more, and to feel generally more optimistic. Keep a gratitude journal or list, actively recording the things you are thankful for each day.

7. Healthy Words, Happy Heart

Happy people speak well of others, rather than engaging in negative gossip. Talking negatively about other people surrounds you with negative emotion; however saying genuine, kind and positive things helps to foster more positive thinking – and it makes others feel good too.

8. Nurturing Your Network

Happy people attract other happy people. By surrounding yourself with a network of supportive, caring friends and loved ones, and really nurturing those relationships, you’ll attract more happiness, and be able to spread more as well. It also helps to avoid negative people, although this isn’t always possible. If there are negative, energy-draining people in your workplace or social circle, make sure you have healthy boundaries in place with them, and be sure to treat them with kindness; kind, loving behaviour is contagious and a little goes a long way.

9. Letting Go

The happiest people are those who practice forgiveness instead of holding onto grudges. Emotions like resentment and anger stand in the way of happiness, while letting go frees you of those negative feelings and makes space for positive emotions to start filling you up.

10. Loving the Little Things

Find meaning in life’s simple, easy-to-com-by pleasures; a beautiful sunset after a hard day, a hot fresh cup of tea, or your favourite song on the radio while you’re stuck in traffic. This ties in with the daily habit of gratitude; paying attention to the things that bring you joy, not matter how small they may seem, can really help to foster feelings of optimism and joy.

Keep smiling and shining beautiful people!