While the seasons are changing there seems to be turmoil at every turn.
Along with the ever-evolving Covid situation the weather is changing in ways we are not expecting, and news from foreign shores is impacting our everyday lives here in Perth.
At a time like this, our lives are never more enriched than by spending time with our pets.
The research papers to support this are many, but as pet owners, we already know this anyway.
At a time like this, our lives are never more enriched than by spending time with our pets.
During busy or uncertain times, taking one day at a time is often a smart move.
But there are other benefits to be had from this more intentional approach...
When you focus on winning each day, you also get a chance to reflect. You may be surprised how many things turned out better than you expected.
In turn, you can get clearer on what you really want, which is a powerful way to create more happiness.
If you want to feel happier today, these five super simple practices and tips are here to help you.
1. Practice gratitude
“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” —Zig Ziglar
Gratitude is one of the quickest and easiest ways to elevate your happiness levels. All you need to do is focus on something that you’re grateful for and notice how it makes you feel.
When you focus on gratitude, it’s hard to be frustrated or annoyed. What’s more, switching on positive emotions through gratitude inspires you to see the world through more abundant eyes.
Gratitude makes you feel happy whether you’re feeling thankful for something small like being able to spend more time with your fur baby - or something big such as great health for all your family.
Every day at Active Pet Rehabilitation we are grateful for meeting and being able to help our lovely patients and their families.
2. Do a Random Act Of Kindness [RAOK]
“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.” – Princess Diana
Being of service to others is a powerful, but simple way to feel good.
From taking care of a chore you know a loved one is putting off, to buying a coffee for the person behind you in the queue, these RAOK spread a little happiness. Even catching someone’s dog who has broken free at the park, or offering someone a bag for picking up when they are all out.
And it’s not the recipient alone who benefits!
A RAOK will also elevate your happiness, thanks to a phenomenon known as the ‘Helper’s High’ whereby your body releases feel-good chemicals.
Catching someone’s dog who has broken free at the park, or offering someone a bag for picking up when they are all out can give you a “Helper’s High”.
3. Read, watch or listen to something you find funny
Laughter has a huge effect on creating a positive mental attitude and physical well-being. And a positive mental attitude and a healthy body are crucial to maintaining happiness.
To positively change the chemistry of your brain, begin each day with at least a minute of hearty laughter.
Need some inspiration? Search for funny YouTube videos of dogs or cats. Who doesn’t love that to start your day with a smile?
4. Practice mindfulness
We spend a lot of time doing stuff. Whether that’s the never-ending housework, ticking off work-related tasks, or fixing things around the home.
When you’re engaged in lots of activity, it’s harder to find the calm within.
Through mindfulness, you can calm an over-active mind, settle stress, and feel fully in the present moment.
Spending just 5 minutes with our fur babies, calmly brushing or patting them will boost our happy hormones and help elevate our emotions and guide us to feel more present in the here and now.
Spending just 5 minutes with our fur babies will boost our happiness
5. Spend time in nature
Nature is a powerful healer.
Whether you take a walk along the beach, along the river, up in the hills, or around a lake, immersing yourself in some fresh air and a natural soundtrack is a powerful way to feel good - for a number of reasons.
Firstly, exercise releases endorphins, which make us feel better.
Nature is also grounding, which helps us to feel more present in the moment. Nature shows us that there is a sense of certainty amidst all the chaos. Finally, being in nature is a beautiful reminder that we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves. This perspective contains a lot of freedom.
Being in nature is a beautiful reminder that we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves.
When living in a world of chaos, confusion, and uncertainty, it’s easy to lose our footing and feel worried about the future.
Fortunately, there’s always a way to come back to ourselves and feel good within.
Reconnect with what inspires you. Goals and resolutions are wonderful, but inspiration is a powerful engine for lasting change. So, reflect on what you want from this year and why you want it.
Our passion at Active Pet Rehabilitation is making life better for fur babies and their families.
What fills you with passion?
Tell us in the comments below and feel better today!