Happiness & Well-Being: Tips for Emotional Health

Focusing on your emotional health isn't hard, but it may be an adjustment for you. Some simple — and really enjoyable — changes are all it takes to boost happiness and well-being. Follow these ideas to strengthen your emotional health:

#1 Exercise: It protects physical and emotional health, relieves stress, and makes you feel good.

#2 Make time for laziness: You don't have to be constantly on the go — that's how you get run down. Spend a little time each day or each week doing something you enjoy that is completely frivolous. For example, watch TV or a silly movie, chat on the phone, play a game, or just listen to music.

#3 Spend some time in the sun: With sunscreen, of course. But sunlight is a great natural way to boost your mood.

#4 Deal with your emotions: Learn how to properly deal with stress, anger, and anxiety instead of keeping them bottled up inside.

#5 Be healthy inside: This means avoiding junk food and sticking to a healthy diet. You should also steer clear of smoking, drug use, and too much alcohol.

#6 Treat your senses: Do little things that make you happy and stimulate your senses, like lighting a scented candle, buying some fresh-cut flowers, indulging in a massage, or treating yourself to your favorite food or drink.

#7 Sleep: Everyone gets cranky without enough sleep, so dedicate adequate sleep time every night. Or treat yourself to a nap every now and then.

#8 Be creative: Spend some time learning new things, like a new language or skill (for example, music or knitting). Even just working in your garden can help you relax and feel satisfied.

#9 Adopt an animal: Pets offer fun, relaxation, and a whole lot of love. They can encourage you to exercise, and tear your attention away from stressful activities.

The bottom line is pretty simple: take time for happiness. Allow yourself to enjoy life, fun, and relaxation. Be thankful for what you have, and enjoy it.