It’s been a difficult few months and if you haven’t been feeling very happy lately that’s completely understandable. We’ve all had a lot to adjust to and a lot of people have been struggling with their well-being. But there is an increasing body of evidence that shows that happiness isn’t just about feeling good emotionally, it’s also important for our physical health. And one area where happiness helps is in supporting your immune system. Making your happiness a priority right now could help keep you well, and there are some simple actions you can take to make a difference.
Get Active
If you’ve been staying active during lockdown, you’ve probably already felt the benefits for your happiness. Moving your body increases dopamine and serotonin levels which makes you feel good. But it’s important you do something you enjoy. If you’re not someone who enjoys exercise you might like to consider going for a walk, dancing to a favourite piece of music, or gardening. They’re all great ways to get moving. On the other hand, if you’re already pretty active you might want to be careful not to do too much as over exercising has been linked to an increase in anxiety.
Be Present
Mindfulness has become increasingly popular recently and with good reason. It reduces the stress hormone cortisol and increases levels of feel good serotonin and endorphins. It can also help improve the quality of your sleep - something which is essential for immune health. Contrary to popular belief, mindfulness isn’t about blocking your thoughts out but simply being present in the moment. Try focusing your mind on your breath and, when you notice yourself thinking, gently return your attention to the breath. Like a lot of things, it takes practice, but the benefits are well worth it.
Connect with others
One of the greatest challenges of recent months has been the need for physical distancing. In fact a lack of social connection has been shown to be as bad for you as smoking a packet of cigarettes a day and twice as harmful as being obese. Connecting with others stimulates release of oxytocin which makes you feel good and boosts immunity, so it’s important to find ways to connect with others despite physical distancing. Something as simple as a phone call to a friend can make a big difference to your health and happiness.
Try Something New
Trying something new gives your mind a workout and increases your happiness along the way. It gives you a goal to work towards and that stimulates the release of dopamine. Each step closer to that goal gives you a confidence boost. The size of the goal doesn’t matter either. It could be as simple as trying a new recipe or as ambitious as learning a new language. The important thing is to find something that challenges you enough to hold your interest without becoming a source of stress.
Be Kind
It’s hard to be happy when those around us aren’t but when others feel good we do too. Showing kindness is a simple way to help others feel good and increase your own happiness as it stimulates the release of oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin, your body’s natural feel good chemicals. Whether you hold a door open for someone, surprise someone with a gift or volunteer for a charity, it all helps. So be kind and feel the benefit but remember to be kind to yourself too.
(This article originally appeared in a shortened form in Your Healthy Living magazine)
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