Being truly happy is a processes that works from the inside out. If you want to reduce stress levels, stop overthinking, and improve your outlook on life, then you have to make a conscious decision to think positive thoughts. According to neuroscientists, becoming perfectly happy starts with your brain. But how can you make your brain happy?

Here are seven tips from neuroscientists on how to become perfectly happy:

1. Talk About What Bothers You

Keeping your emotions bottled up inside won’t do you any good in the long run. You might think you’re being strong by keeping everything together. But it’s important to know that it’s OK to feel what you’re feeling. How can you keep your brain happy if you have negative emotions inside? Talk about your problems and work through them instead of keeping them bottled up.

talk about problems brain happy

2. Touch And Embrace

Social interaction is part of being human. Embracing others is a form of physical support. Studies have shown that hugging is therapeutic. It can help relieve sickness, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and stress. So support your brain health and give someone a happiness boost by sharing a hug.

3. Learn

Constantly acquiring new knowledge helps you adapt to a changing environment. Reading, learning a new language, or learning to play an instrument allows your brain to reward its attempts to absorb and process information, through the release of dopamine, which brings you joy.

learn brain happy

4. Exercise

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress levels, keep your body healthy, and clear your mind. When your workout is over, your body releases a dose of endorphins. The result is a an elevated mood, reduced pain, and a happier outlook. And keep in mind that that best exercise is the one you stick with!

5. Get A Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep is directly related to your health, happiness and stress levels. When you sleep at night, your body releases melatonin. This hormone slows down all of the processes in the body to help you recover and recharge. When you don’t get enough sleep, your stress hormone is triggered. That’s why it’s so important to get a good night’s sleep!

sleep makes brain happy

6. Solve Problems One At A Time

When something is bothering you, it will stay in the back of your mind. You brain will constantly worry about it, causing stress and anxiety. If you have a problem that needs solved, don’t push it off. Sit down and figure things out, one at a time. Both the act of problem solving and resolving a problem will help make your brain happy.

7. Engage In Pleasant Expectations

Studies have shown that your brain can experience pleasure by simply anticipating a pleasant event. If there’s something enjoyable on the horizon, such as a date, a birthday party, or the start of a fun weekend, allow your brain to revel in the excitement!

And practice gratitude!  That’s another great strategy to create a positive mindset and make your brain happy.

Sources:
Bright Side
Mind Body Green
Psychology Today
Psychology Today