TIPS FOR FEELING HAPPIER THIS WINTER

As the winter months roll in and the daylight becomes shorter, we are all searching for the best ways to feel happy and content in a season known for more darkness. Winter brings both challenges and opportunities, and this blog will guide you to embrace a winter of well-being and understand the keys to finding joy during these colder months using positive psychology research findings.  The happiest countries in the world are known for their high standard of living, social welfare systems, and low levels of corruption, factors that contribute to their citizens’ overall well-being. Although the United States typically does not make the top ten list of happiest countries, we can intentionally use the findings from positive psychology research to improve our lives.

 Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is a relatively newer field, as research is historically focused on discovering more on diseases, pathology, and what is less pleasant in life. Positive psychology shifts a focus toward the “thoughts, actions, and behaviors that make us more productive at work, happier in our relationships, and more fulfilled at the end of the day” (Happify Daily, n.d.).

 So, why should you care? Increased happiness is linked to lower blood pressure, better heart rate variability, and more protection from sickness and disease (Celestine, Ph.D., 2023, The Science of Happiness in Positive Psychology 101). What may or may not be surprising to you is that happiness is not based on income, celebrity status, self-care routines, or genetics. Instead, happiness levels are elevated by having a sense of community, engaging in acts of kindness, cultivating a comfortable environment, and getting outside in nature. 

1. Connect with Others

Community is key to feeling happy and content. The longest happiness study done by Harvard began in the 1930’s. They found that, “people who are more connected to family, to friends, and to community, are happier and physically healthier than people who are less well connected”. Find a community that supports you, embraces you, and helps you feel like a part of something greater than yourself. Some examples include churches, synagogues, or religious institutions, gyms or fitness groups (hint: PFP), clubs or classes that meet weekly, and simply seeing friends and family.

2. Perform Acts of Kindness

Studies show that doing prosocial behaviors increases our own happiness. Buy a coffee for the person behind you, compliment your coworker, or even find a way to volunteer frequently with an organization you care about.

 3. Create an Environment of “Hygge”

This Danish word, pronounced “hoo-gah,” literally translates into “a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).” Meik Waking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, says, “Hygge is more a way of life, one that makes ordinary moments feel special, pleasurable, and meaningful.” How can you transform your home or life into a hygge environment? Some main components of hygge include warm drinks, cozy sweaters, candles, dim lights, and most importantly, being surrounded by good friends or company.

 4. Get Outside

We’ve all heard nature is healing, and research shows that it’s true. Being outdoors, near water, and even smelling flowers or other “outside smells” can increase our happiness levels. Although it’s cold in the winter, try to get outside during daylight hours. 

 Take Care of Yourself!

Research and science support that community, acts of kindness, a sense of hygge, and nature all help to boost happiness hormones. Take care of yourself this winter and focus on these four components to embrace a season of happiness.