Happiness is something that can come from the unlikeliest of places and actions. We often think that having material things, or a certain person in our lives will make us happy. We can discover however that sometimes when we get those material things are that special person, not only does it not lead to happiness, it can lead to unhappiness.
In fact, if we pay attention, we begin to realize that happiness comes from the simple things. These things are often overlooked or thought to be unimportant. It is only when we slow down a little bit, get in touch with ourselves better, and really become honest about what makes us happy, that we actually find happiness.
This article focuses on simple things that do not cost money but are certain increase your happiness.
Volunteer
One certain way to increase your happiness immensely, is to volunteer in your local community or at your local school. Every Community across the country is in need of good people like Arden Andersen who can spare some time to help those in need. You can offer to work at one of the government offices or a school, or to assist in getting out information about important services for the community, you can even help with the very young or elderly who need assistance with the simplest things.
Wherever you decide to volunteer, the result will always be the same; you will give of yourself and help those who cannot help themselves. As importantly you will gain wonderful benefits from giving your time unconditionally.
Some of these include a greater sense of community, a better appreciation for people, a sense of having contributed to something good, and a chance to make new friends. Some say the volunteering is gone out of style, but I believe that is long as happiness is in style many will be volunteering
Take a Walk
The United States is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. There’s every type of terrain and every climate. There are mountains and valleys, big cities,rural farms, fields of flowers, amazing parks, gorgeous lakes, and interesting architecture nearly everywhere you look. Many Americans miss most of what I just described, because they’re either too busy or because they pass it by nearly every day in automobiles, never stopping to even give a glance. This is unfortunate because stopping and seeing these things add to your life into your happiness.
So one great thing to do is to take a walk. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes and walk through your neighborhood period or more appropriate, drive to a park and enjoy nature. The result will be that you will be calm, and gain a sense of satisfaction. Remember, we work so hard in order for us to be able to enjoy the things in life that are so simple and abundant. Get out into the streets, let the sun hit your face, and take a walk. You will be happy you did.
Smile
Are things going not so well lately? Have you had bad news and a disappointment that is really bringing you down? The perfect response to these things is simply to smile. Physiologically, smiling causes the release of Serotonin and other feel good chemicals in your brain. It literally starts a chain reaction that causes you to be happy.
This is not just being happy for happiness sake however. When you are in a better mood, you are also able to figure out options for whatever situation you are in. So that bad scenario that you were living currently can be worked out if you only smile. The best thing about smiling is that it is free, you can do it as often as you like, and it tends to be contagious. So go ahead, smile.
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