Health and Happiness

What do happiness, contentment, Depression and anxiety have in common? Well they are all feelings or emotions and they are all expressions of how you are feeling. Many people don't think of happiness and depression as being in the same category.
Being happy and healthy go together, you have no doubt heard the expression that "laughter is the best medicine". Laughing makes you automatically feel happy and this improves your mental health.

When you are feeling stressed out, anxious or depressed your body releases hormones that prevents some of your vital organs from working effectively. For example stress can actually damage your liver due to over production of hormones. Many people who are depressed gain weight as your body senses a change in your well being and starts to store fat.
Research has shown that people who are happy with their lives live much longer. Being 

happy also has a direct link to the way you think. Positive thinkers are more likely to feel happier than negative thinkers.
So how do you achieve this wonderful state of happiness?
Well first off you should look at your diet and see what you are eating on a regular basis. Eating a healthy well balanced diet releases good hormones called endorphin's which make you feel good. These are the same hormones which are released when you exercise, again another great way to find happiness and contentment.
Surrounding yourself with positive thinking people is another good way to feel better. Studies have shown that couples who are happily married actually live longer than those who aren't as happy.
Helping others is a wonderful way to do something good and can make you feel happy. Small kids are at their happiest when sharing things. Have you ever watched young children play? They just love sharing their toys and snacks with everyone in sight.
Think about what things you enjoy doing for yourself. Doing for yourself can make you feel good such as soaking in a hot bubble bath or enjoying a massage. Actually a massage is a great way to relax your entire body and leaves you feeling fantastic.
Make time for yourself as your mood will reflect on those around you. If you are feeling down your kids will pick up on it. When you are happy they are too. By making time for your own happiness you will automatically infect happiness on everyone around you.