How To Create Joy In Your Life

10 Ways to Add More Joy to Your Life

There's plenty of good in the world, we just have look for it. But there are several ways you can create your own joy—here are a few ideas to bring more happiness to your everyday life.

Finding Joy, girl jumping in a puddle happily, how can I find joy

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once wrote, "Into each life some rain must fall." If you sometimes feel like your life is one downpour after another, it's time to find some joy. And it's easier than you might think.

Related: Reasons Why You Should Meditate

Being joyful has the power to help you bounce back from stressful events, solve problems, think flexibly, and even fend off diseases. Here are 10 simple ways to make your days brighter:

1. Do something you loved as a kid

Sing silly songs, splash in puddles, or see how high you can swing.

2. Laugh at life's hassles

No day is perfect. But there's often something at least a bit amusing in challenging situations if you look for it.

3. Collect sayings or photos that make you smile

Then stick them where they're visible—on your refrigerator or at your desk, for instance—to look at when you need a pick-me-up.

4. Play a song you love

Imaging tests of brains show that music can release feel-good hormones.

5. Go for it

Stop putting experiences you want to try on hold. Bake a pie from scratch, learn to crochet, or sign up for an indoor climbing class—explore what intrigues you.

6. Take a nature break

Look up at the sky, and see how blue it really is. Go on an early-morning walk, and delight in the dew on the grass. Let nature's beauty soothe you.

Related: Living in the Now--Being Present

7. Take a mental break

Close your eyes and imagine a place you love. Use all your senses. Are you drawn to the beach? Smell the salt water, feel the sun on your back, and hear the crashing waves.

8. Spread happiness

When you get good news, don't keep it to yourself—tell a friend. You'll relive the moment and have the extra pleasure of your friend's reaction.

9. Seek out happy people

Good moods are contagious.

10. Develop your playful side

Joke with strangers in line, arrange nights out with friends, or have a regular game night with your family.

SelectHealth does not expressly or implicitly recommend or endorse the views, opinions, specific services, or products referenced at other websites linked to the SelectHealth site, unless explicitly stated.

The content presented here is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and it should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Sources: HelpGuide; Mental Health America SelectHealth may link to other websites for your convenience.