International Day of Happiness is a day to celebrate and reflect on well-being. What makes you happy? Eating a treat, buying something, investing in a meaningful goal, taking a walk, or being in a close relationship?

“More than simply a positive mood, happiness is a state of well-being that encompasses living a good life, one with a sense of meaning and deep contentment.” That’s according to Psychology Today, the media organization that focuses on psychology and human behavior. 

What’s more, the good news is that “A growing body of research also suggests that happiness can improve your physical health; feelings of positivity and fulfillment seem to benefit cardiovascular health, the immune system, inflammation levels, and blood pressure, among other things. Happiness has even been linked to a longer lifespan as well as a higher quality of life and well-being.”

According to the research, though, it’s not happiness itself that brings joy and well-being. Instead, happiness is the result of increasing life satisfaction by “Regularly indulging in small pleasures, getting absorbed in challenging activities, setting and meeting goals, maintaining close social ties, and finding purpose beyond oneself.”

One study even shows that older people tend to be happier. So, don’t worry about getting older and, instead, indulge in the pursuits that have been scientifically proven to make us happy: 

1. Actively bring positive emotions into your life
2. Know and use your strengths
3. Have a sense of purpose
4. Set and achieve goals
5. Engage in healthy relationships

Featured image by Andrea Piacquadio (Pexels)