Studies have shown happy people live 10 years longer than unhappy people. In addition optimists have a 77% lower risk of heart disease than do pessimists. But how can we become happier and more optimistic in our world view?.
In the How of Happiness, Sonja Lyubomirsky points out that 50% of our propensity for happiness is based on a genetic set point; obviously something we can’t control much. 10% is based on life circumstances such as getting a promotion, finding a forever soul mate, landing the dream job. And 40% is ‘intentional activity’ that we can influence through our behaviour. This means that we can become up to 40% happier in our lives without changing our circumstances.
But how do we do that?
One way is to practice gratitude.
Here are some ways you may like to practice gratitude. The key is to adopt a daily routine that works for you.
1. Keep a gratitude journal – daily write down 3 things you are grateful for. Or you could try the 3 question journal developed by Angeles Arrien –
- What surprised me today?
- What touched my heart today?
- What inspired me today?
Doing this daily increases your ability to be surprised, touched and inspired by even the smallest acts of kindness, beauty and love.
2. Train yourself to think grateful thoughts (this is my favourite)
3. Speak about what you are grateful for perhaps at the dinner table each night
4. Express gratitude to others such as your friends, children and co-workers.
5. Can you find it in your heart to also be grateful for life’s challenges too?
Choosing your ways of expressing gratitude really can have a profound impact on your brain and your life. You may also like to watch the show recorded on abc where Mike Mosely goes in search for ways to be happier in an effort to manage his anxiety, insomnia and stress levels. http://www.sbs.com.au/news/video/310415939727/Michael-Mosley-Dont-Worry-Be-Happy
I really enjoy doing my daily gratitude practice and notice the difference it has made to my life and also my families. I just automatically do it now without needing to think about it or it being just another thing I need to fit in.
Two things are I am so very grateful for are our beautiful Cavoodle Bailey and a home yoga studio.
Enjoy taking this time for you to do your gratitude practice.
