Give back
Help yourself by helping others. People feel good when they do good, “but research now shows that giving is good for you emotionally and physically,” says Margaret Clark, PhD, a social psychologist and professor of psychology at Yale University, in New Haven, Conn.
Sit down and eat
The Italians have practically made this an art form. They know that preparing and eating meals together can help you bond with others, and just all around enjoy life more. If your crazy schedule seems to never leave room for a sit-down meal, opt for easy prep meals and fit them in on weekends.
Schedule fun every day
You can enjoy life without taking an extravagant vacation. Each morning, think, “What can I do today that will make it an amazing day?” suggests life coach Victoria Moran, author of Living a Charmed Life. Create your own personal list of simple pleasures, and work them into your day.
Wake up with yoga
Shake up your morning routine with a natural energy booster: yoga! Several poses allow you to take in more oxygen and stimulate your muscles and adrenal glands, raising your energy levels. Yoga also increases your flexibility and strength, relieves stress, and improves your mood.
Brighten your surroundings
Give your home a mini-makeover to create a peaceful haven. Clear clutter, pick soothing colors, and hang prints on the wall that make you feel good when you look at them.
Pick a perfect snack
Snacking between meals can curb hunger and satisfy your cravings. So when your stomach starts to rumble, go for it! Whether you’re in the mood for salty or sweet, healthy snacking is a great way to sneak extra nutrients into your day.
Soothe yourself with sound
Need to chill out? Try listening to some tunes. In a 2010 study, researchers found that soft, soothing music reduces anxiety as well as a massage does. Plus, hearing music you love can relax blood vessels and increase blood flow, which is good for your heart.
Get social
Prioritize time together with friends. Whether you go out or stay in, it’s important to let your hair down and blow off steam every once in a while with your pals.
Dance the night away
Hitting the dance floor does wonders for your mind and body. Not only will you get a killer cardio workout and burn calories, but dancing may also help you let loose and shake out pent-up stress.
Make negativity a no-no
Turn your to-do list into an adventure, without letting negativity get in your way. Push all doubts to the side and write down your thoughts and feelings. “You’ll boost your self-esteem and happiness by gaining control of your situation,” says Richard Wiseman, author of 59 Seconds: Think a Little, Change a Lot. This will pave the way for you to get excited about doing everything you have to do.
Sip some wine
A glass of wine can help you relax and de-stress. It may be good for your heart too. (Just don’t overindulge!)
http://www.health.com
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