What is it that makes people feel happy? There are several practices that can lift your mood, help you feel happier and look for the joy in your day to day life.

Here’s my list:

1. Gratitude. This is about perspective. Focusing on the good things in your life will make you happier and I truly believe that gratitude for everything is key to a happy and successful life. Start your day by writing down three things for which you feel grateful, do this daily and I promise that things will start to look up.

2. Forgiveness. If you harbour grudges against others you'll never be truly happy... The grudge creates bitterness which eats at your heart. That heart will never be truly happy.

3. Compassion. For others, for our world... Opening your heart to others and offering to help in any way (no matter how small) helps with the appreciation of how blessed you are (see point number 1 on gratitude!)

4. Self-love or self-care. I used to think that loving yourself with egotistical or big headed. However, more recently I’ve realised that you can't pour from an empty cup. We need to love ourselves and have that self-worth before we can help others. Self-love is NOT selfish.

5. Nature. A connection with nature is so important, being outside, in parks, in nature, lifts your mood and general wellbeing. If you can’t get outside everyday, then bring some nature inside.  Plants indoors are also great for cleansing the indoor air. A disconnect from nature literally makes you depressed.

6. Exercise. Exercise, or any physical activity, lifts your mood. Hormones such as endorphins and serotonin are also released in response to increased physical activity. So keeping your body moving gives you more energy to enjoy and live life to the full.

Are there any others that you'd add to this list? 🤔