FitSpirit: Find joy every day
FitSpirit explores the mind-body connection and the intangible benefits we gain from our efforts to stay physically fit.When you're happy, you feel better, look better, and may even live longer. Seems you ought to be happy more often then, doesn't it? OK, easier said than done on the days you find yourself feeling downright blue. You can always try, though, to bring more joy into your world. I say take a stab at happiness every day. Here's how.
- Go outside. When you're bored, anxious, or feeling bummed, head toward nature. Sit and soak it up. Or move around. The fresh air and exercise are sure to boost your mood.
- Head to bed. Go to bed an hour earlier tonight. The world will look a lot brighter in the morning. While you're at it, sleep late on the weekend. You deserve a lazy day.
- Share. Give a gift for no reason at all. Make a batch of low-fat mini muffins -- here's why you should keep them small -- and pass them out at work. Or offer a friend some hand-picked flowers. My little boys and I shared the fruits of our recent strawberry picking extravaganza with some neighbors, and we all felt happy after delivering smiles to so many faces.
- Reflect. At the end of the day, think of at least one good thing that happened over the course of the previous 24 hours. Yesterday, my four-year-old told me he loves me with all his heart. Giving thanks for great moments does wonders for perspective.
- Jump for joy. Really. Jump. Jumping up and down will fill your body with energy. It's good for the bones too.
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