I've found a good way of looking at what happiness really is about and what makes some people seem happier overall than others. My best explanation so far is this: Those that are happier value this definition of happiness: 'The daily experience for a more meaningful life'. (Max Strom.)
Furthermore, a more easily attainable goal is to strive for 'contentment' in life. We wouldn't have a the full spectrum of feelings available to us if we were meant to be continually happy! (Patanjali yoga sutras). Remember you are not in charge of anyone but yourself and you are not responsible for anyone else's happiness.
So get out there and do something that is meaningful to you. This can include helping others find happiness too.
Yoga philosophy teaches that what you give out in positive energy comes back to you in this life and hopefully the next.
Savour your moments in life, every single breath is a extra breath you've been given to be part of this world and to shine your light.
Meditation teaches us how to observe our thoughts before we respond and to remember to do this in daily life. This takes practice and concentration. When you are deeply relaxed your body produces oxytocin and serotonin.
Meditation helps to calm your 'monkey mind' from jumping around from one thought to another. Character is made up of repeated habits. We can choose to change our habits.
Make it a habit to Meditate at least twice a week and then progress to daily. Start with 2 minutes and 5 breaths without any other thought creeping in. If you falter, start back at one again. Prana is your energy force which is awAkened using your breathing techniques. Feeling the movement of your breath from your lower stomach right up to your throats and back down again. Use a mindfulness app. If needed to get started.
Meditate on a place you like to be. Use visualisation to take you there.
Use a picture in your mind, for example: Meditate on a lotus flower rising from the muddy waters.
Meditate on love and those you love.
Meditate on your God or any divine being you can relate to and imagine their heart and the purity of it.
Meditate on sending compassion to those you love and those who may need to feel more love in their heart.
Meditate on a physical object: a candle, (a fake one for children) or a word that is written, for example, the word 'joy' in big letters and then close your eyes and visualise it in your mind.
Meditate on a single word, 'mantra'. 'Om' 'so ham'. These mantras are sounds that can bring peace by making the sound within yourself and joining the energy within you to the wider universe.
Meditate 'Om' reach up then bend down- mantra: ' it's not about me. '
Final tips: Take a moment to centre yourself for the day, for example; set an intention for the day ahead or state an affirmation to yourself.
Stretch your body in the morning and throughout day.
Have a laugh.
Take a minute to be grateful for the goods things in your life.
Make time for yourself; take a nice bath once a week or make time to drink a coffee (all of it!) by yourself if possible.
Music, meditation,yoga, exercise, personal rituals all help to alleviate anxiety and general life stress. Use what works for you!
References: Strom, M, There is no app. for happiness.
Davidow, S. Raising Stress Proof Kids.
Make time for yourself; take a nice bath once a week or make time to drink a coffee (all of it!) by yourself if possible.
Music, meditation,yoga, exercise, personal rituals all help to alleviate anxiety and general life stress. Use what works for you!
References: Strom, M, There is no app. for happiness.
Davidow, S. Raising Stress Proof Kids.
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