Adams Media - Simple Activities to Help You Live Joyfully

Adams Media

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Copyright 2021 by Simon & Schuster, Inc.

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First Adams Media hardcover edition January 2021

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Interior design and illustrations by Priscilla Yuen

Cover design and illustrations by Priscilla Yuen

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Adams Media (Firm) editor.

Title: 100 ways to happy.

Description: Avon, Massachusetts: Adams Media, 2021. | Series: 100 ways.

Identifiers: LCCN 2020034723 | ISBN 9781507215135 (hc) | ISBN 9781507215142 (ebook)

Subjects: LCSH: Happiness. | Self-help techniques.

Classification: LCC BF575.H27 223 2021 | DDC 158.1--dc23

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2020034723

ISBN 978-1-5072-1513-5

ISBN 978-1-5072-1514-2 (ebook)

Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where those designations appear in this book and Simon & Schuster, Inc., was aware of a trademark claim, the designations have been printed with initial capital letters.

This book is intended as general information only, and should not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. In light of the complex, individual, and specific nature of health problems, this book is not intended to replace professional medical advice. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions in this book are intended to supplement, not replace, the advice of a trained medical professional. Consult your physician before adopting any of the suggestions in this book, as well as about any condition that may require diagnosis or medical attention. The author and publisher disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of this book.

Contains material adapted from the following title published by Adams Media, an Imprint of Simon & Schuster, Inc.: The Book of Happy by Adams Media, copyright 2018, ISBN 978-1-5072-1007-9.

Do you find yourself longing for positivity? Wish you had a little more joy in your life? Feel like you just need a break from the negativity that surrounds you?

In todays hectic world, happiness can be tough to find. Fortunately, 100 Ways to Happy is here to help you find your smile and bring a sense of bliss and balance to your life when you need it the most.

Each of the one hundred exercises throughout the book will help you live the happiest life you can and become more content and worry-free. There are mantras you can recite, meditations you can do, and easy suggestions to help you put your life and activities in perspective, including:

These activities, along with a number of inspiring quotations, will help you look for the good things that surround you and find a sense of purpose, belonging, and well-beingno matter what life brings your way.

In a world that can feel not-so-great, 100 Ways to Happy has just what you need to find joy. So take a deep breath and get ready to embrace happiness.

Attitude is a choice.

Happiness is a choice.

Optimism is a choice.

Kindness is a choice.

Giving is a choice.

Respect is a choice.

Whatever choice you make makes you.

Choose wisely.

ROY T. BENNETT, American author

Even if you arent normally a happy person, thinking happy thoughts is a skill that can be learned.

Work on choosing to think positive thoughts and seeing the proverbial glass as half full rather than half empty.

So the next time someone says something rude or does something that makes you upset, respond with kindness and respect. Keep that positive vibe going through your intentions and actions in whatever you do. The more often you choose to be happy, the happier youll actually feel.

You try to eat well, exercise, and get enough sleepat least a few hours every nightbut sometimes the daily grind doesnt leave much time for self-care. Before you become overwhelmed, set aside some time each day to rest, relax, and recharge and focus on what makes you happy. Throughout the day, use this breathing exercise to reconnect with your own source of happiness:

1. Sit with a straight spine, palms facing upward on your thighs.
2. Inhale, softly making the sound of So.
3. Exhale, making the sound of Hum. Do this So Hum breathing for one minute. (This mantra, from the Sanskrit, translates as I am that.)
4. Rest your consciousness in the silence for four minutes as your thoughts gravitate toward contact with the Divine.
5. Feel your life-force energy being recharged and reinvigorated and reconnect with your happy place.

Fun is light, enjoyable, and energizing. It broadens your horizons and limits your focus so youre not worrying about anything too serious. If you dont have enough fun in your life, look at your calendar for the next week and find a time to do at least one thing just for recreationplay tennis with a friend, go salsa dancing, visit a used bookstore. Having it scheduled will help you relax a little during the rest of the week, knowing that youre doing something to tend to your happiness.

Also, encourage yourself to weave smaller bits of fun into your everyday experienceeat dinner on the patio, drive home the pretty way, play with the kids on the playground instead of checking your phone. These moments will lift your spirits and make everything else you do feel a little more effortless.