Want to be happy every day? Try these 10 everyday habits to enhance your wellbeing
- charlottelattin7
- Oct 15
- 5 min read
Creating a life filled with wellbeing is not just about occasional self-care practices; it’s about weaving small, meaningful habits into your daily routine. These habits can greatly impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. In this blog post, we will explore ten everyday habits that can enhance your wellbeing, helping you to love the life you have, every day.
1. Start your day with mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment. This might mean meditation, or it might just mean 5 mintues with a coffee being 'in the moment'. Spending just five minutes each morning in meditation or focusing on your breath has been shown to help reduce stress and enhance your mood. A study from Harvard shows that mindfulness can decrease anxiety levels by up to 30%. If you're not sure how to start why not come along to one of my meditation sessions where we explore some techniques (and end with deep relaxation). You can find out more and book here.
If you have to jump straight up and out of bed don't worry - you can integrate mindfulness into daily activities too. Whether you’re eating breakfast or brushing your teeth, try to concentrate on what you can see, hear, and feel. This practice can help you to stay present and appreciate the little moments in life.
2. Stay hydrated
You've no doubt heard it before but...water is vital for our bodies to function well. Staying hydrated can boost your energy levels, enhance your mood, and improve cognitive function. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. One study found that even slight dehydration can negatively affect mood and concentration.
Struggle to do this as you find water boring? Incorporating herbal teas or adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to your water can make hydration more enjoyable. Remember, staying hydrated is a simple yet powerful step that can significantly enhance your wellbeing. If you think you're tired, try having a large glass of water and check in again 20 minutes later. you might be surprised!
3. Move your body
Anyone who knows me knows that this one is one I am passionate about. That doesn't mean everyone is though so it is about finding a way of moving, not matter what it is, that YOU enjoy!
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a dance class, aim for at least 30 minutes of movement each day. A study by the World Health Organization emphasizes that regular exercise can reduce the risk of depression by 20-30%.
Exercise releases endorphins – the “feel-good” hormones – helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. Plus, engaging in physical activity improves sleep quality, which contributes to overall wellbeing.
4. Connect with nature
It can be tricky, especially as the dark mornings and evenings draw in but try to get some time in nature if you can. Spending time in nature has been shown to provide numerous benefits for mental health. A walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, or simply sitting in your garden can help reduce stress and enhance your mood. Research suggests that spending 20 minutes in nature can significantly lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
To incorporate nature into your life, consider taking your lunch break outdoors or enjoying a morning walk in a nearby green space. Even small doses of nature can make a big difference.
5. Practice gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful practice that can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. Taking a few moments each day to reflect on situations or people you appreciate can enhance your overall wellbeing. Research has shown that writing down three things you are grateful for daily can increase your happiness by up to 25%. Making a mental note is fine if you don't fancy writing things down.
This simple and quick habit can help cultivate a positive mindset, making you more aware of the good in your life.
6. Limit screen time
I feel slightly hypocritical typing this as I am obviously using a screen as I write but in our digital age, it’s easy to spend excessive time on screens, especially before bed. Limiting screen time can lead to better sleep quality and less anxiety. Consider setting boundaries, such as no screens during meals or within an hour of bedtime.
If you can, use that time for other activities that promote wellbeing. Read a book, journal your thoughts, or enjoy face-to-face conversations with family. Reducing screen time helps you feel more present in your daily life.
7. Foster social connections
Strong social connections are essential for our wellbeing, but time pressures and our curretn way of life can make connections tricky to maintain or keep regular. Try to nurture relationships with family and friends through regular catch-ups, whether in person or virtually. Research shows that quality friendships can lower your risk of depression by 50% so why not come along to a class or retreat with a friend? Book onto something together and get more than 1 boost to your wellbeing - classes can be found here.
Building a support network provides a sense of belonging and helps you navigate challenges. Focus on deepening these connections rather than just increasing the number of acquaintances. If you're struggling with this, some coaching might be useful. For a 1:1 coaching session online or in person get in touch or book online.
8. Prioritise sleep
This is a tough one as we try to cram ever more into our lives. However, sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can improve mood, cognitive function, and even boost your immune system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that lack of sleep can increase the risk of chronic conditions like obesity and heart disease by up to 30%.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine to signal your body it’s time to wind down. Activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques can help. Consistency in your sleep schedule also regulates your body’s internal clock. If you struggle with winding down at night you might want to come along to my meditation classes, or book a 1:1 in person or online session with me to help learn some techniques to help. Find out more here.
9. Engage in creative activities
We might have been told that we aren't 'arty' in school but that doesn't mean you can't be creative. We all have some creativity in us, it can come in many forms. Engaging in creative pursuits can be a great outlet for self-expression and personal growth. Activities like painting, writing, crafting, or playing music can lift your spirits and improve your wellbeing.
Find a creative outlet that speaks to you. This practice can help you unwind and explore your thoughts while also boosting your confidence.
10. Set realistic goals
It can be tempting to aim high, think big, reach for the stars and...maybe not quite make it, which can be disheartening. Setting and achieving goals can provide motivation and direction in your life. However, it’s important to set realistic and achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate each small victory along the way.
This approach helps keep you focused and motivated while enhancing your sense of purpose. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection.
If you want to have a chat about any of the habits suggested drop me a line or give me a call.
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