Wednesday 25th January 2012
by Keane1. Listen to Christmas music
A fan of gangsta rap and heavy metal? Me too. But sometimes we don’t think about how the noise and lyrics affect us subconsciously. If you want to party, sure, bust in some Pac or Nas, but if you’re looking to really warm up, try listening to some Christmas music. The peacefulness. The images it conjures. The harmonies. Listen to Nat King Cole and tell me he doesn’t put a smile on your pretty face. This is, of course, unless you have a phobia of the holidays…
2. Eat spicy foods
Apparently the spice causes our bodies to release endorphins. I also mentioned this in my previous post, “Five Ways to Shake Up Your Life.” Endorphins could explain why some people have mild addictions to spiciness. Though, really, I think they just like to eat. Spicy foods also wake a person up, for better or worse, and often can be found in more fun, exotic foods. Finish with some fruit for a fresh, bright zing.
3. Activate the body
Get on the floor and do a few push-ups every now and again. Stretch. Breathe in deeply for a few seconds. So often, sitting at work, we neglect bodily needs. Get your blood moving again, and subsequently release some endorphins.
4. Take a break and/or meditate
After, say, 25 minutes of work (especially computer-based work), it’s important to take some time to readjust the mind. This isn’t just good for you, it’s also good for your work. Ever go for a walk from the office only to have a brilliant idea hit you? Taking a break works far more effectively than beating your brain at your desk. Let your mind reorganize. And you don’t need to be able to go into Full Lotus to meditate. Put some time out for yourself and sit quietly in a room. No distractions. No desires to do anything else. You can spare the five-to-ten minutes. Your brain and body will thank you for it.
5. Watch something funny on YouTube
Let’s not underestimate the importance of laughing and smiling. Find something funny and watch it. Here’s a good first start.
And remember to drink plenty of water and get enough rest! Hydration and sleep solve so many of life’s problems…
Got any tips? Leave them in the comments below!
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Tags: conversations with bert andy samberg, cure for sadness, finding happiness, goldfrapp happiness, how to be happy, how to improve mood, sesame street andy samberg, tips for happiness, tips for self-improvement