22 Simple Ways To Live A Healthier, Happier Life (Who Doesn’t Want That?!)

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5. Maintain Friendships

Friendships take work. Neglect a friend for too long and you will lose that friend. Studies show that maintaining healthy friendships can lead to a longer, more satisfying life. Whether you are single or not, try to see your friends on a regular basis. Try some weekly get togethers to go walking, biking, or even just watch a game on TV. Having good, strong friendships help to buffer the difficulties everyone goes through in life.

6. Play

You know the old saying: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” It makes Jill just as dull. Play like kids do every now and then — blow bubbles on your front porch, skip rope, play on the swing set, make mud pies, set up a lemonade stand, run a race just for fun, have family game night, play tug-of-war. Whatever makes you smile and LOL is the right thing to do.

7. Dump the Weekend Rut

Your weekend is supposed to be like a mini-vacation, not a time to try to get all your chores done. Break up your chores during the week so that you are mostly free during the weekend. Weekends don’t need to be expensive, but they should be fun. Try to avoid doing the same old things like sleeping in, going grocery shopping, watching television in the evenings or going out to the movies. Shake things up. Check out free or inexpensive events sponsored around your town, go hiking, go surfing, look for seashells, or go to a museum. Try to do something different at least two weekends out of every month. You will really feel refreshed and renewed!

8. Dig In The Dirt

Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! Playing in the dirt will improve your physical condition as well as boost your immune system. Whether you decide to start a vegetable garden or do some landscaping, digging in the dirt and getting in touch with Mother Nature will make you feel better. Dirt contains microscopic organisms called M. vaccae, which get absorbed by your skin and trigger serotonin, a neurotransmitter which will help you improve your mood. This is why many gardeners are so hardcore — it makes them feel good! Put away those gardening gloves and dig in! If you are an apartment dweller, try growing a few veggies and flowers in pots.

9. Get Crazy

Whether it’s dressing up for your favorite sports team or going a little crazy with the holiday decorations, letting yourself go a little crazy from time to time is a good thing. In Europe, during the Middle Ages, the holidays (which, back then, were designed to honor a particular saint) allowed peasants to go crazy, blow horns, dance all night long in the streets, and act like clowns to release stress and vent frustrations. This helped stop the peasants from rioting or revolting. Of course, no one wants to be a revolting peasant, but don’t be afraid to go a little whack-o every now and then.

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