Six ways to think happy!

Sometimes life can get you down. Whether it's the grey skies, empty bank account or row with your partner it's easy to feel low sometimes. When the dark thoughts start forming try this simple six exercises to turn that frown upside down !

•Laugh and the world laughs with you
There's a saying that laughter is the best medicine and it's true. When you smile and laugh you produce higher levels of serotonin (natural happy chemicals) which help boost your immunity. So why not stick a comedy on or play with your kids and spread the happiness.

•Take a reality check
When you think back over your day do you tend to focus on everything that has gone wrong? It's a typical part of human nature to focus entirely on that bus that broke down or that traffic jam that made us late. To turn that thought process around write down any concerns you might have like 'what if I get stuck in traffic', or 'what if the event is cancelled'. Do this for seven days and at the end of the week add up how many times you were right and how many you were wrong.

•Spread some good cheer
When you help someone don't you just love that inner glow you get? Try having a kindness day once a week where you do five things that benefit others. This can include catching up with old friends, donating to charity or even donating a few basic items to a elderly neighbour.

•Print your photos
With the advent of modern technology we have hundreds and thousands of photos on our mobiles and computers. How many of those photos do you have on display? Research shows that people who look at photos of loved ones had their mood improved by 11%

•If music be the food of love...
"Music increases the feel good chemical dopamine" says Dr Modgil. Previously dopamine has only been known to increase when in love or when spending money or eating. Turns out that night down the club can be more beneficial then you might think!

•Eat brain food
There is proven research that what you eat is linked to how you feel. Treats like chocolate and caffeine can make blood sugar levels rise then crash causing a drop in mood. Opt for complex carbs like whole grain bread and brown rice and try to eat every three hours for optimum results.


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