Sunday 20 May 2012

Here is a collection of ideas (from numerous sources) to help in the pursuit of well-being:

Fun stuff you mightn’t have thought about . . . .
1.         Keep a gratitude journal 
People who keep a gratitude journal, who each night before going to sleep write at least five things for which they are grateful, big things or little things, are happier, more optimistic, more successful, more likely to achieve their goals, physically healthier - it actually strengthens our immune system.
2.         Laugh more – take time to see the funny side
Health benefits of laughter are far-ranging:  studies so far have shown that laughter can help relieve pain, bring greater happiness, and even increase immunity
3.         Play to your strengths
Unhappy people spend a disproportionate amount of their time on aspects of their life that are not their ‘signature strengths’ at the expense of those that are.  What are your ‘signature strengths’?
4.         Practice random acts of kindness
Surprisingly, the benefits for the giver are even greater than for the receiver – it’s worth trying.
5.         Give something back – find a cause
Committing to someone or something greater than yourself makes a real difference – try it!

Doesn’t sound like fun – but just as important. . .
6.         Improve your sleep – keep a diary to record your sleep (to help improve quality and quantity)
More people die on the road every year due to sleep-deficit than drink-driving.  If you don’t get your fill of sleep you are starting your day at a severe disadvantage.
7.         Eat smarter – graze more, eat less sugar.  Keep your sugar ‘spikes’ to a minimum.
Sugar ‘spikes’ result in the brain instructing the pancreas to secrete insulin – which leads to a sugar ‘trough’.  These highs and lows impact your well-being (they also make it harder to keep unwanted pounds away).
8.        Exercise every day – just walk more?
Three times a week for 30 to 40 minutes of aerobic exercise (walking or aerobics or dancing) is equivalent to some of our most powerful psychiatric drugs in dealing with depression or sadness or anxiety
9.         Be positive, sensibly optimistic - remember Henry Ford
 “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re probably right”
10.       Reflect / Meditate – switch off for 5 minutes, just be
Whether you pursue  meditation or relaxation techniques, the benefits are well researched and documented

Links to related research/advice:


3.      http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.aspx  
 
[see the questionnaire on VIA Survey of Character Strengths)








No comments:

Post a Comment