Happiness is an interesting term. What is being happy? What is feeling happy? How do we define happiness for ourselves? Often times we fine tune our lives; get bigger houses, nicer cars, and buy more shoes. Are these the things that make us happy? What happens when these things are no longer fulfilling, or no longer available? What then?
What we do know is that happiness feels good. When we can experience happiness, we feel lighter, less weighed down, less heavy with stress and worry. Happy people feel good to be around, they exude positive energy. Studies have found that happiness can improve aspects of our lives. In her 2007 book, The How of Happiness, positive psychology researcher, Sonja Lyubomirsky describing happiness as “the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile.” Here you can find her talking about The Benefits of Happiness:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcUtVAeZwYo
So now that we know there are benefits, Why Practice Happiness?
In addition to feeling good, studies have found that our lives can improve by being happy. Happy people cope better with trauma and stress. Happy people have more fulfilling relationships. Happy people are more productive and more creative.
Based on her research, Lyubomirsky concluded that approximately 50 percent of happiness is determined by our genes and 10 percent from our life circumstance. However, 40 percent is a result of our daily activities. Lyubomirsky and other researchers suggest ways in which you can boost happiness.
These include:
- Build Relationships
- Give Thanks
- Start a Gratitude Journal
- Practice Happiness
- Give up Grudges
- Exercise
- Practice rest and relaxation
- Practice mindfulness
- Don’t focus on material wealth
Happiness is a process and a personal experience for each individual. Not everyone requires the same experience to be happy; however, we all want it, crave it and can certainly achieve it. So there may be wisdom to the song as it goes, “If you’re are happy and your know it clap your hands.” Here you can sing along: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfCMRk-osJ8
Contact Mosaic Counseling at 661-665-6077 or email me at Kristie@IAmAMosaic.org to find out about our free weekly meditation group – and start practicing happiness today!
Kristie Esquivel, IMF
Mosaic Counseling 