It seems part of the experience of seeing the truth about 'the troof' is an abundance of negative feelings. This can be detrimental even if it is necessary.

So in the interest of helping us balance out our negative feelings, here's a list of "Happiness tips":

1. Think happy. Be over-optimistic. Happy people see things better than they actually are.

2. Don't dwell on the past, live in the present.

3. Good relationships can heighten homeostatic levels.

4. Recognise negative thoughts. Avoid permanent phrases such as "I'll never be happy". These can lead to a vicious circle of negative automatic thoughts.

5. Have a laugh. Laughing increases our serotonin and endorphin levels - the chemicals inside our brain that makes us feel good.

6. Exercise and diet. A balanced diet that includes protein and carbohydrates will help our body deal with stress. Carbohydrates increase blood insulin levels, releasing tryptophan, another "feel good" chemical.

7. Get enough sleep: 7-8 hours a day will help our bodies restore our energy levels.

8. Have regular sex: It boosts serotonin levels and our immune system.

Source: The Australian Psychological Society Referral Service

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So, how's your serotonin level?

Cheers,
Ozzie

"It's better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."
Anonymous

Hello Ozzie,

a nice post indeed. Good points...

and usefull reminders for us all.

Greetings, and thanks again, J.C.MacHislopp

Thanks Ozzie,

Great tips! And, "free" - reminds me of a former boss of mine. His favorite expression was "It's free for nothing."
If he went to the bank during lunch hour, and received a complimentary pen, upon his return his eyes would light up with excitement as he, once again, said "Look, I got this free for nothing." If some evangalizer give him a tract, again, "I got this free for nothing." Of course, he was a Cuban refugee who made his escape to the U.S. in 1959, so maybe that explains his glee in receiving anything 'free,' eh? Even the most simple 'free' thing can have great value in perspective.

Truthfully, I used to rather despise the man, but have long since let go of the past, and can now reflect on his behaviors with a sense of humor. I've got dozens of funny stories I can relate about his eccentric behaviors.

Another great thing about your 'tip list' - they can be applied to any age group, any culture, any race, any sex...and it's never too late to start implementing one or all of them.

Thanks Ozzie :)

Hey Ozzie!

As usual, you post something of real benefit! Thank you; I needed these reminders. I agree with Think on the power of positive thinking. I have also learned that implementing #2 is the best way to go...after all, yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery. Can't waste the present beating myself up for yesterday or worrying about tomorrow; I did enough of that as a JDub.

As for #8....

Dana

"I undid his head collar and took him outside for a drink, and felt, if not exactly a communion with him, at least an awareness of being a fellow creature on a lonely planet."

Dick Francis in "To The Hilt"

Hello Ozzie,

Thanks for sharing these tips! I have printed them off and will be sharing them with my children this weekend.

I don't think that we can overdose on happieness. The more the better.