Have a happier 24 hours with these feel-good tricks – they’re all totally free!
If life has become a drudge, you’ll be wanting ways to lift yourself out of that slump. Don’t worry – there’s no need to make any drastic changes. At least 40%* of our happiness is down to our daily choices and activities, and feeling brighter doesn’t need to cost a fortune. ‘Happiness is like a muscle. We need to exercise it to keep it on top form,’ says psychotherapist Jordan Vyas-Lee (koveminds.com).
Ready to have a better day? From the moment you wake until you nod off at night, these purse-friendly tips will help improve your outlook.
BRIGHTEN YOUR MORNING
✱ STRETCH YOURSELF AWAKE
‘Yoga is the perfect morning routine to prepare your mind and body for the day ahead,’ says instructor Hannah Barrett. Try the extended mountain pose when you get out of bed: inhale and reach both arms up high, extending your spine and lifting your ribs to open your chest. Take several big breaths.
✱ CHANT A MANTRA
‘Set the tone for your day by saying a positive mantra out loud, such as “I love life and life loves me”,’ says therapist Eve Menezes, author of 365 Ways To Feel Better (£10.49, PB, White Owl).
Practising self-affirmation activates the area of the brain associated with pleasure and reward.
✱ GRIN IN THE MIRROR
Smile at yourself while getting ready. Even faking a grin can make you feel brighter by triggering feel-good brain chemicals endorphins, say researchers at the University of Kansas.
✱ WEAR A POP OF YELLOW
A scarf or sunny bag will do the trick on a grey day. A Dutch study found that we feel happier around this cheery colour.
✱ TAKE A ‘SOFT HIKE’
This is the act of getting out in nature for the wellbeing-boosting benefits, rather than challenging yourself physically. Research suggests that walking 30 minutes each day could be as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression. Moving outdoors encourages the release of brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin, a lack of which have been linked to low moods and fatigue.
ELEVATE THE AFTERNOON
✱ MEET AN UPBEAT FRIEND
Having cheerful
