by LuAnne Steininger
As we explore health topics and work our way through the alphabet, we come to the letter “H”.
Take a moment and answer this question honestly for yourself. Am I happy? If you answered yes, can you recognize how that feels and do you know why you are happy? If you decided that you are not happy, can you determine what could make you happy
Often, we think circumstances make us happy. We may tell ourselves; if I had a partner I would be happy; if my partner was different I would be happy; if I had a job I would be happy; if my boss was nicer to me I would be happy; if I was healthier I would be happy; if the world wasn't at war I would be happy. The list could continue endlessly. We might even determine that changing the circumstances over which we have no control would make us happy. “If only my spouse hadn't died, I would be happy.”
You're more in control of your happiness than you think. Everything begins with a thought. As repeated thoughts become words, words then become actions, which in turn become habits. So, catch yourself having a thought.
Byron Katie says, “It's not the problem that causes our suffering, it's our thinking about the problem.” In her book, Loving What Is, she has 4 questions you can ask yourself about any situation.
1. Is it true?
2. Can you absolutely know it's true?
3. How do you react when you think that thought?
4. Who would you be without the thought?
This is the point where you can turn the thought around. Here are a few more simple steps to be happier.
Exercise
We all know exercise is good for us. Did you know that exercise, in addition to all the physical health benefits, can be a potent mood changer? If you exercise, you'll feel better.
Get restful sleep
This can be a challenge for some people but it is critical to good health. Feeling tired impairs your thinking, productivity and your ability to be happy.
Eat healthy foods
The cells of your body respond to the fuel you feed them. Feed your brain cells high octane fuel for full mental function.
Give up blaming and complaining
This is not always easy, but the extra effort will pay off in increased happiness.
Practice being grateful
Whenever you want to blame or complain, think of something you can be grateful about. I'm not sure you can be grateful and unhappy at the same time. Gratitude sets the stage for a happier life with more optimism.
Mingle and bond
Be involved with your community and family. A sense of interdependence creates a feeling of connection, which can lead to greater happiness.
Socialize and have fun
Happy people have strong social networks and spend time cultivating friends. Laugh, have fun, share stories and create a life of happy moments. This can add up to a happy life.
Set realistic goals
Plan something. Get in touch with the things that bring you joy and do them more often.
Be of service
When you are doing some thing for the greater good of others, you'll be happier.
Make time for refection
Moments of peace can change your brain chemistry, open you up to inspiration and bring greater happiness. You can then face life's challenges with a new perspective.
Ultimately, pay attention to your thoughts, take care of your body, do what you love, be in service to others and forget about being happy. Happiness will find you.
LuAnne Steininger, B.S. Health Education, is the Wellness Coordinator at the Sanford Center for Aging, University of Nevada, Reno. She has worked with people ages 50+ for more than 20 years and is on the leading edge of the baby boomer generation.