Contributor Inga Tritt shares her family’s key ingredient for a happy home
When our daughter was born, we knew
the greatest gift we could give was
the capacity for happiness and love.
Happiness promotes self-confidence,
kindness and inner peace. Plus, research shows happy
families enjoy many health benefits including longevity,
boosted immunity and a greater sense of well-being. In short,
happiness and health go hand-in-hand. We use these tips for
extra happiness and joy!
Laughter … What makes you laugh? Comedy or funny
movies? Is there a family game that inspires smiles? In
addition to the great release you get from a good laugh,
a University of Maryland study found laughter may help
prevent heart disease. Laughter helps reduce blood pressure,
strengthens our immune systems and releases anti-stress
endorphins.
Family Focus … Family focus is one of the major factors
contributing to the health and longevity of people in the Blue
Regions (regions with the most centenarians) like Okinawa,
Japan and Sardinia, Italy. Being together and enjoying
each other is vital bonding that makes for lasting, healthy
relationships. A Swedish proverb puts it best: “Shared joy is
double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow.”
Exercising Together … When it’s fun, everyone enjoys
exercising! Whether we take a walk in a beautiful setting,
or go for a relaxing swim, regular exercise helps us feel
refreshed and renewed. Next time your kids invite you to play
a game of tag, go for it!
Sharing a Hobby or Inspiration … Studies show
that meditation, prayer and faith in more than ourselves adds
to happiness. Even the heightened focus that an enjoyable
hobby provides can have the same benefits.
Giving … Giving our attention, love and kindness to
others helps everyone, including us! Studies show that when
we give, we boost our positive sense of self and family. Plus,
helping others releases endorphins, reduces stress and can
even cause a decrease in physical pain.
Gratitude … Incorporating a gratitude ritual into your
family routine will ensure time to focus on the blessings in your
life. Gratitude elevates your mood, promotes connectedness to
others, reduces stress and helps you sleep. Plus, saying thank
you promotes optimism, a natural immune booster.
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