According to Dr Cliff Arnall, of Cardiff University, last Friday, 23^rd June, should have been the happiest day of the year for us all. 

A combination of reasons make the 23^rd the happiest day of the year, including good weather, increased exposure to sunlight and the prospect of summer holidays.  Another factor is increased outdoor activity – but not just for those taking part – those watching the football and the start of Wimbledon are counted as contributory factors. 

In fact, Dr Arnall has devised a formula to measure our happiness: 

O + (N x S) + Cmp/T + He*

Mr Arnall claims that the key to happiness is that simple, but what do you think?  

We asked out expert, Ken Nowack for some practical tips which could help make us feel happier should the above equation not be improving our mood.   

• Sleep: Get adequate rest/sleep as lack of it has been shown to influence fatigue and moods
• Exercise: Make time for physical activity as those who frequently exercise report lower depression and higher psychological well-being
• Forgiveness: Forgive others who have hurt you in the past
• Emotional Expression: The goal is to feel good as opposed to just “feeling good” all the time.  Expressing one’s emotions, particularly through writing, can have strong immune protective effects
• Social Support: Engage with others and avoid those who are “toxic” in your life
• Daily Affirmations: Reflecting on your blessings each day seems to be associated with increased well being and happiness
• Identifying and Using Signature Strengths: Identifying and leveraging what you do well and how to maximize the application of your unique “strengths” will allow you to be more engaged and satisfied
• Avoiding Negative Self-Talk: Monitor your own self-talk and work to dispute those things you say that are irrational, absolute, self-critical and/or overly perfectionist

 

*O = Outdoor activity

N = Nature

S = Social interaction

Cpm = Positive memories of childhood summers

T = Temperature

He = Holidays and anticipating time off

 

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