5 Tips That May Bring Instant Happiness

Happiness impacts every moment and aspect of our existence. Here are five in ant pick-me-up ideas to have at your fingertips.

Food is mood. When you are feeling down, you may have a strong desire for junk food. Before you open your treat cupboard, remember that your negative mood could be a “long-distance call” from your gut (肠道) saying it needs some healthy food fuel. Eating gut-friendly food may clear a blocked pathway from gut to brain. 【小题1】

Move your body. 【小题2】 When that dark mood comes along, take it outside! Go for a walk, a run, or a swim. Physical activity produces natural endorphins (内啡肽), those feel-good chemicals.

Open your heart. 【小题3】 Everyone has dark feelings that they like to bury, but when you are honest, you are authentic. Opening up and showing venerability actually invites deeper partnerships with friends.

【小题4】 Music is another easy pick-me-up tip. Put on a happy song, be it pop, jazz, or classical, and let your brain do the rest of the happiness work. A study suggests that listening to positive music increases subjective happiness. After just 12 minutes of hearing upbeat music, participants felt a mood boost.

Watch the sunset. Yes, the simple act of watching a sunset can boost your mood. 【小题5】 Those who notice natural beauty though connecting to nature have a higher sense of well-being.