Project Happiness Articles — reflection

Choosing to insulate ourselves deeper and deeper in a cocoon of protection weakens our character, puts unnecessary restraints on our lives, and  limits our life experience to while we try to prevent experiencing pain. 

Through the pain and utter despair, I was shedding skin like a reborn snake. I was forming new rules to live by and leaving my painful past behind.

There is a happiness conspiracy afoot and I’m starting to get concerned. Messages of happiness have been pummelling me from all directions. It’s barely noon and I’ve already seen happy-faced emojis sprinkled throughout my incoming text messages

One of my very favourite cartoons is this one from Michael Leunig. It's been on my page a number of times - and to me encapsulates sometimes how life is - and how - when things are very tough - it is the small things that get you through.

The science is in! And it undoubtedly proves that gratitude is more than just a simple sentiment. Studies link gratitude to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, better sleep quality, reduced risk of heart disease, and better kidney function. But the benefits of living a life in gratitude extend much further than purely physical.

Getting started is easy. All you need is a notebook or diary and something to write with. Spending just a few minutes each day writing about how you’re feeling is enough to get you on track.

Resentment toward others is a clear sign that we are not taking care of ourselves. As you shift your intent from blaming others to loving yourself, you will find that forgiveness follows naturally.