NOTEBOOK ▲ SMILE MORE The simple act of smiling sends a message to your brain that you're happy. Your body pumps out all kinds of feel-good endorphins. 1 Take care of your body If your physical energy is in good shape, your focus, feelings and purpose will all be affected in a positive way. Consistent exercise significantly raises happiness levels almost immediately - and you will have a higher sense of self-accomplishment and self-worth. 2 Cultivate community Take time out every day to connect with the important people in your life. Establish weekly or other regular rituals that give you opportunities to interact with others and to share your thoughts. The happiest people enjoy genuine social relationships. 3 Apply yourself Stretch your skills and abilities on a regular basis and be willing to give your full attention and time to whatever you're working on (or doing) at that moment. Begin swapping passive 'sit around' activities for more meaningful, challenging and rewarding ones. 4 5 A month-long nature challenge held in 2015 involved people 'doing something wild' every day for 30 days. It showed a pivotal increase in health, happiness, connection to nature and active nature behaviours, such as feeding the birds, for months afterwards. Make a point of doing considerate things for others. Volunteer, cook someone a surprise meal or give them a gift when it's neither Christmas nor their birthday. Seize every opportunity to do a good deed - and express gratitude for kindnesses you receive. Say hello to nature Help other people www.athomemagazine.co.uk AUGUST 2017 | 027http://www.athomemagazine.co.uk