Happiness Blog

Are there scents that make us feel happier? It sounds silly, but there is research out there that points to the answer being yes! For example, flowers, and especially lavender or jasmine flowers, have been associated with feelings of calmness. This calmness has been attributed to help with insomnia and even depression. Another example is with peppermint. The scent of peppermint has been linked to the elevations of peoples’ moods and even stimulation of the mind and body due to the oil the leaf contains. Lastly, fresh-cut grass is another scent that has been researched on. The chemical released by newly cut grass has been associated with feelings of relaxation and, for some, joy! Even though this a silly, or maybe even weird, way to gather happiness in our lives, try to enjoy nature’s scents and capture the beauty in the air we may take for granted. It may even give a nice boost of happiness to our day!

Today we reflect on the tragic occurrence that happened on September 11, 2001. Through loved ones lost, individuals from everywhere scarred, and a sense of worry and fear being hung around ominously, this was a dark time that had impacted millions of people across the United States. Although it is important to reflect on this tragic day as a way to remember the pain and sorrow we all faced, let us also look through a lighter lens and examine all the volunteers that worked to rebuild the community, the millions of people that banded together as one, and the amount of love and support everyone gave to get past this tragic and horrific time. If we reflect in this way, we can realize just how strong we really are, and more importantly, just how strong we are as a community. Although we may not realize it as we go through a dark time, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Remember that you are strong and have loved ones supporting you every day which ultimately builds a stronger community for us to grow and feel secure in. Reflect on this tragic day as we should reflect on our lives: don’t let the darkness completely dim down the light that is always trying to poke through.  

When we think of the word “contagious,” we may think of negative things such as the Flu, common colds, or other viruses and bugs that could possibly harm us. Studies have shown, however, that there are incidences where contagiousness is not necessarily a bad thing. Through research conducted by Harvard University and the University of California, San Diego, they found that happiness can be spread through social networks. Specifically, they found that if an individual is happy, their friend’s happiness could increase by 25%. Furthermore, they found that this happiness can be spread to friends of friends as well, making a more positive social network. When reading this study, I particularly gathered two big meanings from it. The first one is to surround yourself with happiness. If happiness is contagious, make sure to be around those that bring your mood up instead of inversely bring it down. Reflect on family and friends that you interact with that make you happy and appreciate the time you have with them that contributes to your overall mood. The second one is that you have the ability to brighten someone’s day. Contagiousness can go both ways, meaning that you too can boost someone’s mood. Allow yourself to recognize the emotions of your friends and family, and continue to give them support and kindness so that happiness can be spread throughout.

If you love dancing your heart out to catchy music, you should definitely check out The Fitness Marshall! Caleb Marshall has been making upbeat dance workout videos (that are really more like a dance party than exercise!) for years. We know dancing releases endorphins (the happy hormones!) and helps people get their bodies moving. And along with the physical and mental benefits, Caleb’s peppy, fun, energy-filled attitude makes the dances so enjoyable! He and two other fellow dancers walk you through each step and mirror the movements. The channel has light, moderate, and heavy sweat playlists to match your dance goals. He also has 30 and 60-minute “sweat sessions” for those who want a longer workout routine rather than a fun 5-minute groove! Whether you want to dance for 5 or 50 minutes, this channel has a routine for everyone! Ready to dance to the beat? Check out this easy, low-impact cardio workout to the song “Love Shack” by the B-52’s! Want something heavier? Try this workout to Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance”! Remember, happiness and fitness are a journey, and dancing with The Fitness Marshall makes that journey a joyful ride!

Life can feel really chaotic and stressful at times. You might feel like you are always running around, doing work, and do not have time to breathe. If you need a way to decompress and become present, try yoga! Along with its physical benefits, yoga is a holistic journey that nurtures both body and soul, leaving lasting happiness. 

1. Harmony: Yoga is a great way to connect your mind and body through purposeful breathing, mindfulness, and movement. This reduces stress and anxiety while boosting relaxation and mood. 
2. Happy Hormones: Doing yoga releases endorphins, which boost your mood.
3. Being Present: Mindfulness in yoga is super important! Doing yoga can help you center yourself and become more present. Savor the moment.
4. Gratitude: Yoga encourages gratitude towards your body and mind’s abilities to keep you healthy and grounded.  
5. Self-care: Yoga is a total act of self-care! It is all about trusting and getting in tune with your mind and body. 

Incorporating yoga into your daily/weekly routine is a great way to center yourself physically and mentally. You do not have to become a yoga enthusiast to benefit significantly from the practice. It is about embracing the journey and progress. So, when you are feeling extra stressed, take a second, breathe, strike a yoga pose, and let your body unwind.

Music has a remarkable power to uplift our spirits and bring joy into our lives. Whether you are feeling down or simply looking to listen to some fun tunes, the right song can be an instant mood lifter! So, rather than just reiterating the numerous mental benefits of music, I thought I would curate a playlist full of upbeat, happy songs to listen to! 

1. “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves
2. “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
3. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
4. “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
5. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles
6. “Shut Up and Dance” – Walk the Moon
7. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA
8. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake
9. “Shake It Off” – Taylor Swift
10. “Good Vibrations” – The Beach Boys

So, the next time you are feeling low or need a pick-me-up, turn to these feel-good songs and let the power of music work its magic. Create your personalized happiness playlist and let the positive vibes flow through your day!

Owning a pet is a unique experience that can significantly improve our well-being. Pets enrich our lives with love. Their unconditional affection and amusing antics brighten our days and remind us to cherish every moment spent with them. But along with the happiness they bring, pets can also help us humans with our health. This specific study by Karen Allen and others, along with other studies, shows that spending time with pets reduces stress, anxiety, and even lowers blood pressure. Even if you do not have the time or resources to take care of an animal, there are numerous benefits to just watching animal videos! A study conducted by the University of Leeds showed how animal videos can lower your anxiety, heart rate, and blood pressure. You can find these videos on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, and Instagram. These endearing antics, whether it is a cat getting scared by a cucumber or a dog gleefully frolicking in leaves, showcase the playful and joyful nature of our beloved pets.

Trust has been linked to positive moods and happiness and many studies have explored this idea. Trust, the ability to have faith and ease to tell someone something or do something, is important in our lives. It is important to communicate with those you trust so that you can share your thoughts, emotions, feelings and whatever else you may be thinking of that you don’t want to keep only inside your head. Reflect on those that you can trust. This could be your therapist, your friends, your family, anybody! Take this one step further and reflect on how these people have been there for you and have helped you through times that you may have needed someone to lean on. Note how your overall mood is when you think about these individuals and maybe even think about telling them how much they are appreciated. Trust is a great tool in our lives and is one that can benefit our happiness levels throughout.