Spring is in the air and for many of us that’s a good enough reason to feel happy. But what really is Happiness and how do we get more of one of life’s most desirable emotions?
Regional psychologist and Happiness Coach, Mahsa Anderson, gives us the lowdown on this uplifting feeling.
“There’s actually two different types of Happiness,” Mahsa explains.
“The first is that momentary positive feeling of elation; think, cute puppy or eating your favourite food. This happiness is superficial and short lived. Collecting material things, seeking status and accolades are also good examples of this type of happiness. There’s nothing wrong with this. It still creates joyful moments, it’s just that they’re fleeting.”
Mahsa says the second kind of Happiness is one that has a more enduring sense of contentment; it’s deeper, truer and longer lasting. It’s the kind that comes with having purpose and meaning in life. The difference between the two is akin to the difference between falling in love and a lasting marriage.
“It’s easy to confuse the two types of Happiness. And, if you rely on the first kind, you’re bound to be miserable.”
Here are some of Mahsa’s top Happiness tips.
Think happy, be happy – neurons that fire together wire together
“What you think about yourself is what you are. If you’re pessimistic or tell yourself you’re not good enough, that’s exactly how you’ll feel and what you will be. Talk positively to yourself and tell yourself you’re worthy of what you have, want and need.”
Move your body
The brain attributes a sedentary life to being unwell because resting is what we do when we’re sick.
“Keep your body busy and do different things with it. It doesn’t need to be costly or difficult – even the act of gardening and housework moves your body.”
Get outdoors
Research shows that exposure to natural light and the natural world lifts Happiness levels very, very quickly. Sunlight and the colours found in nature lower your stress levels, your blood pressure and your heart rate while raising our mood. Researchers have found feelings of depression, anxiety and anger are greatly decreased after spending time outdoors.
Eat well
If you eat well, you’ll feel well.
“Plant-based whole foods are really important as they feed healthy gut bacteria. In contrast, dairy, meat and processed food feed the less healthy bacteria and are one of the causes for systemic chronic inflammation which is closely associated with feeling mentally and physically unwell.”
Manage your stress
Slow down your thoughts and follow some mindful practices. Meditation, deep breathing and anything that requires the full attention of your senses, have been proven to make you feel better. Practising gratitude – either mentally or by acts of kindness – is also a destresser.
Sleep
Let your body relax and rejuvenate. Make sure to get 7-9 hours sleep each night and avoid taking electronic devices to bed as research shows the blue light they emit can greatly affect sleep quality.
In summary Mahsa points out that all these things need to become a daily intentional habit. You need to foster consistency to cultivate these habits so they become embedded into your routine.
Happy Travels.
