Want to be happy for as long as possible? Here are the practices to adopt that ensure lasting fulfillment.
It’s no secret that happiness doesn’t happen by chance. We might think it sometimes falls into our laps, but in reality, it’s the result of many actions. According to the largest study on happiness , conducted by Harvard University over nearly 85 years (yes, that’s a long time!), the secret to personal fulfillment lies in the quality of relationships: surrounding yourself with loved ones helps you be happy, but that’s not all.
The other essential factor for a happy life is neither money nor health, but rather the meaning we give to our existence. Committing to causes, taking on challenges, completing projects that inspire us… Therein lies the secret to happiness. Finally, to truly flourish, we must above all learn to appreciate the present moment. This means learning to be grateful for what we have and to marvel at the simple things in everyday life: a child’s smile, a delicious meal, the first sip of coffee…
What are the secrets to happiness?
Conversely, harmful factors such as stress, anxiety, lack of empathy, and loneliness will drastically limit the level of personal fulfillment.
Claire Mounier-Vehier , a cardiologist at the Lille University Hospital and founder of the association Agir pour le Coeur des Femmes (Act for Women’s Hearts ), shared scientifically validated practices for boosting mood on her LinkedIn account. In a post, she explains: “Happiness doesn’t happen by chance, but is learned every day .” According to a study published in Science of Happiness , there are seven key concepts that boost happiness. Here they are:
Maintaining social relationships
Science confirms it: talking to loved ones, or even strangers, helps us thrive. So, don’t shy away from new encounters or time spent with family and friends; it actively contributes to greater happiness! Why deprive yourself?
Taking care of your sleep
As we know, sleep disorders have a considerable impact on well-being and health (physical or mental). It is therefore essential to sleep at least eight hours a night and to take care of your sleep (environment, limiting screen time before bed, light meals, etc.).
Engage in a sporting activity
If we are to believe the secrets of centenarians around the world, engaging in physical activity, even gentle activity like walking, helps maintain fitness and boost well-being. Being active is the secret to happiness and longevity.
Spending time in nature
Gardening, walking in the forest, walking by the sea… These everyday activities allow us to get away from screens and thus clear our minds, while promoting our well-being: “Walking in the countryside deactivates a part of the brain linked to negative ruminations, associated with depression ,” adds the cardiologist.
Mindful meditation
The practice of mindfulness allows you to enjoy the present moment and reconnect with yourself. It can be done through breathing exercises, but also through the practice of meditation.
Performing acts of kindness
“Kindness and happiness are correlated ,” explains Claire Mounier-Vehier. Performing acts of kindness, whether by helping others or giving a gift, brings pleasure to both ourselves and others. The result? It enhances happiness.
Practicing gratitude
Being grateful for what you have and for others undoubtedly fosters happiness. To achieve this, you must practice gratitude. Every day, repeat to yourself things that make you happy or for which you feel grateful. An instant boost of well-being!
