"Simple Things To Make Your Life Happier and Healthier"
You probably know that laughter, hope and optimism make lifemore enjoyable, but some of us seem to be wired for seriousness,sobriety and pessimism instead.
Recent research shows that genetics may have a lot to do withthe level of happiness you experience on a day to day basis. Somepeople are naturally giggly, cheerful, and happy go lucky, whileothers are a bit more somber.
However, there are still plenty of things you can do toinfluence how you feel each day.
Your genetics may determine your happiness "set point," thelevel of happiness that you naturally feel, but your thoughts,choices, and actions still determine how much time you spendabove or below that point.
In these difficult times, feeling hopeful can seem likechallenge even for natural optimists... so here's a list ofsimple things you can do to give your attitude a boost:
1. Do what you love
You already know what you enjoy doing -- if you can find a wayto make a living at it great, otherwise consider spending timedoing it as a hobby or just for fun.
Spend one or two hours this week doing something that youtruly enjoy.
2. Make time for family and friends
Spending time with people you love and enjoy has a relaxingand soothing effect. You'll feel wanted, respected and loved,critical emotional experiences for good living.
3. Watch a good comedy
Nothing flushes away stress like a good laugh. If you don'thave time for a full-length video, find a five-minute funny videoon YouTube.com………..
...Or check out the "Headlines" from The Tonight Show...
4. Repeat positive affirmations to yourself
Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves that things aren'tas bleak as they seem. Repeat a positive mantra like "Today is agood day," "I'm having fun today," "I'm a great (insertoccupation) and I do my job well," or "God works all things forthe good of those who love him."
5. Each day make a list of 10 things you are thankful for
Try not to repeat the same things every day. Spend a fewminutes thinking about the items on your list and realize howgood you've got it.
6. Exercise
As long as you don't over-do it, exercise has an effectsimilar to chocolate because it releases endorphins, whichgenerally have an uplifting effect.
7. Challenge yourself
A challenge makes us alert and self aware, which has anenergizing effect mentally and physically.
8. Be spontaneous
Whether it's going out to a movie on a whim or wrestling withthe kids in the living room, being spontaneous and playful isexciting and energizing.
9. Laugh daily
Laughter triggers your body to create more antibodies andhormones that build up your immune system.
10. Find ways to release tension and stress
If you bottle it all up, stress and tension will eat away atyou and make you susceptible to all kinds of illness and healthproblems. A punching bag or dart board with a picture of yourboss on the bullseye make great stress relievers.
11. Play games
Games get you out of your normal rut. They allow you toexercise your brain in a non-threatening situation and to explorenew patterns of thinking. Don't get too serious about the gamesyou play, they're supposed to be fun.
12. Play in the world of a child
Children are magnets for joy, creativity and laughter. Getdown on your knees and let them show you how to play.

13. Wear something unusual, goofy or bizarre
Too often, we dress to impress. Purposely wearing somethingunbusiness-like or downright goofy can help you relax, releasetension and free yourself to just be you.
14. Reward yourself
You do great things. Rewarding yourself encourages you to domore great things and builds up your self-esteem.
15. Make a funny movie
Camcorders are relatively inexpensive and everyone can thinkof something funny to do on camera. It's a creative output thatencourages laughter. Post your video on YouTube or MySpace toshare with others and make them laugh too.
16. Post jokes, cartoons and funny posters around where you cansee them
These things encourage laughter and a light-hearted spirit.
17. Reward someone else
Nothing feels better than making someone else feel special andappreciated, even if it's just a simple smile and "Thank You" fora job well done.
Action Exercise
Pick 3 or 4 of your favorites and DO them over the next week.