Actionable things that can bring happiness
While visiting Denmark, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the hygge philosophy. Hygge, which literally means "coziness," is about finding comfort and joy in life's simple pleasures—like sipping a warm cup of tea (or coffee or hot chocolate), curling up with a good book, or snuggling under a soft blanket. It’s about warmth in the broader sense. The concept resonate with me immediately as I’ve always found happiness in life’s small moments and strive to stay present and appreciative of them.
Some time ago, I came across an insightful article in The Atlantic about happiness—one of the most widely discussed and philosophized topics. Rather than attempting to define happiness (which is deeply personal), the article focused on practical, science-backed actions that can boost happiness on a chemical level. The absence of these activities, on the other hand, can lower endorphins, the neurotransmitters responsible for our mental well-being.
The author emphasized realistic, actionable steps to increase happiness—without suggesting drastic lifestyle changes like "becoming Danish" or "practicing hygge." Instead, they outlined practical guidelines, to which I’ve added one of my own (number seven), as I believe it plays a crucial role in overall well-being.
Hygge is a Danish word that describes happiness coming from simple things.
7 Practical Steps to Cultivate Happiness
Invest in Family and Friends – The key word here is invest. Prioritize and nurture relationships that truly matter. While we may not choose our family, we do choose our friends, and spending time with people who make us feel valued is essential. To have good friends, we must also be good friends.
Engage in Mental Activities – Stimulate your mind by reading, learning, or engaging in thoughtful discussions—activities that go beyond passively scrolling through social media or binge-watching TV. Keeping the mind active is linked to greater happiness and inner peace.
Stay Physically Active – Regular exercise, even something as simple as a daily one-hour walk, helps release endorphins, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. Walking in nature is even more beneficial, grounding us in the present moment.
Practice Spirituality – Whether through meditation, mindfulness, or any other spiritual practice, cultivating inner peace can lead to a greater sense of happiness and balance.
Be Kind – Acts of kindness, whether big or small, not only bring joy to others but also uplift our own spirits. The happiness derived from selfless gestures has been tested and proven time and again.
Join a Community of Shared Interests – Engage in activities with like-minded people by joining a club, taking a class, or participating in group hobbies. Building connections through shared interests can be deeply fulfilling.
Eat a Nutritious Diet – While the original article didn’t mention this, I strongly believe that food plays a crucial role in our well-being. Our bodies and brains are fueled by what we consume, and a diet rich in fresh, nourishing foods can significantly impact our mood and energy levels. Eating mindfully, preparing meals with care, and savoring the experience can bring a sense of joy and satisfaction.
A Cozy Invitation
Happiness isn’t a simple formula, and for some, brain chemistry can make it more challenging to attain. However, by incorporating these habits into our daily lives, we can nudge our minds in the right direction.
With winter approaching and temperatures dropping, now is the perfect time to embrace hygge. Cozy up with a warm, mood-boosting Cacao Latte and dive into a good book in the comfort of your home.
Give it a try, and let us know how it makes you feel!
