Article 2: Happiness and Wellbeing, by Gerry Clarke, co-founder World Happiness Project

Happiness is the meaning and purpose of life, so said Aristotle, an ancient Greek philosopher who lived over 2000+ years ago. And he knew a thing or two!

What is Happiness, you might ask??

To me, it is a feeling of contentment and joy, a sense of satisfaction with life, a sense of worthiness and connection and is closely related to wellbeing, the state of being healthy in body and mind.

Academic research distinguishes between short-term and long-term happiness.

·?Short-term happiness is something we experience in special situations where we are affected by strong positive emotions, such as buying your first sailing boat, getting engaged, or being offered a dream job.

·?Long-term happiness is described as a deeper, more fundamental satisfaction with life. A lasting sense that exists independently from momentary moods.

We can also differentiate between hedonic happiness, where happiness is concerned with maximising pleasure and minimising pain and discomfort, for example, eating a bar of chocolate and eudaimonic happiness, which is concerned with achieving some meaning in life, finding one’s place in the world and being part of something greater than oneself.

We can all be happier in life and take steps to improve the quality of our lives. ??

Here are some practical tips for living a happier life:

1. It’s not all about?money

Once you have a basic amount to live comfortably, time is what affects your happiness. The cost you pay to earn extra money outweighs the enjoyment you get from it.

2. Relationships are very important

Friends and family are significant causes of happiness.

So, if there is not enough time for all your friends, do a friend’s audit.

3. Get Creative!

Try drawing, sculpting, poetry, craftwork or playing a musical instrument.

Creating art and music provides?a pleasant distraction, giving your brain a break from your?usual thoughts.

4. Keep in touch with Nature

Take a walk along the beach, through the countryside, enjoy a breath of fresh forest air, etc. They can all increase your happiness by releasing Serotonin, the happiness hormone.

5. Get enough Sleep

Sleep is crucial to our well-being.

Deprivation alters our brain activity and may lead to problems with decision making, problem-solving and processing of emotions.

6. Discover the garden

Plant a seed, and grow some fruit, flowers or vegetables.

Gardening is highly?recommended to those with mental health issues because it ticks so many boxes?to improve well-being.

7. Sport and Exercise

Get involved with some physical activity. Sport and exercise can reduce your stress, make you feel better afterwards, and help your brain work better.

8. Get a dog or cat!

Stroking a pet has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety.?

Household pets also overcome loneliness.

So, find a furry friend to spend some time with and increase your happiness!

9. Give a hand to help others

Either with your time, by teaching others something beneficial or through your generosity. Consider joining a local Club, Society or Association with a strong feeling of teamwork.

10. Review your life

Do a Happiness audit.

What are your happiness’s main sources, and how can you get more of them into your daily routine?

Spend more time on doing the happy things in life.

These are just some things that we can do to enjoy a happier life.

Action for Happiness produces a booklet about Ten Keys to Happier Living.

If you would like further details, visit www.actionforhappiness.org.?