the little things

Sometimes the best things in life, are the little things. Now, don't get me wrong, I love when some of the big things happen like getting a job, going on a trip, getting into college, and so many more. Unfortunately, the big things don't come around often enough for us to just sit around and wait for them. On a day to day basis, its the little things that get us smiling and through the day, after all sometimes those little things in life, add up too the big things.

Here are some tips that I try and use on a day to day basis to make me happier.

smile more...

As corny as it sounds, smiling actually increases happiness. Just my moving your facial muscles, your brain will kickstart making endorphins. Smiling will also help reduce stress, increase attention, build trust, and put you in a better mood. Wouldn't you rather be around someone who is smiling as opposed to someone who looks like a stuck up bitch with a stick in their ass?

try something new...

Isn't there something you've wanted to try for a while that you never got around to doing? It can be something as simple as trying a new recipe, asking that cute guy at the bar on a date or trying that new trend you have been dying to try. The best part about trying something new is you can do it by yourself, or with a group of friends. You never know how it can change your life. It doesn't have to be as ambiguous as these men who jumped from the top of One World Trade.

listen to your favorite song...

Sometimes, its harder to escape to your happy place than others. For instance, if you are at work and need a pick me up its a lot harder to go for a run than to throw earbuds in and turn up your favorite song! Listening to music has shown to help lower levels of stress, and increase mood. By listening to music for a while, you will be able to mentally escape take a few deep relaxing breaths and continue on. There is no shame in doing a little dance in your seat.

workout...

Working out for me is a HUGE stress reliever. At a young age my mom taught me that when I'm upset, frustrated, stressed or any other type of emotion to channel it into something positive. Thinking back on her great advice, working-out is a much better way to try and make yourself feel better instead of binge drinking, stress eating or whatever else may pop into your head. Even if you only workout for a half hour, you'll get rid of some negative energy you have as well as increase the endorphin production. As Elle Woods would say... 

have a glass of wine...

This may not be the best answer to things, however I have to say, after a long day it really is relaxing. Noting feels better than kicking off my shoes, pouring a glass of Pinot Grigio, sitting on the couch with my puppy and watching some trashy television. It is such an easy way to relax and take my mind off of things. After all, don't they say a glass of wine a day keeps the doctor away... or is that an apple?

laugh...

Without realizing it, laughter is such a great natural way to help the body and mind. A good laugh can help relax your entire body and increase endorphin production. It doesn't matter what it takes but try and get a good uncontrollable laugh in each day.

call a friend...

Near or far, a good friend will always be there to lean on. I know whenever I call one of my friends, there just seems to be a weight lifted from my shoulders. There is something about being able to just relax and say whatever you have to without judgements, that makes everything better. I've called friends, and I've had friends call me at all hours of the night just wanting to talk. It doesn't matter if we talk about whatever is bumming us out or not, just knowing the emotional support is there is enough.

sleep...

After an emotionally draining day, I always feel exhausted. There are just some days that take a lot out of you even if you don't realize it while its happening. After these days, the best thing to do is just go to bed and sleep it off. Just crash, let some time pass and clear your head. You'll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go! 

my personal favorite...

Hug a furry friend. Ive grown up with golden retrievers my entire life. After the worst days, without a doubt, walking into the door and seeing my furry friend waiting for me with the loving eyes and wagging tail can make everything better. The furry friends in our lives will always be there for a hug, make all the bad things disappear and brighten the day. 

 This was my main man Cosmo. Best dog anyone could ask for.

This is Champ, he has some big paws to fill...

until next time... XOXO J