How happy memories can boost your mood
Recalling happy memories can do wonders for your mood and mindset. Here’s why.
So often we focus on what events in the future will bring us happiness – like getting that end-of-year bonus, getting married, buying a house, having a child. But what if one key to happiness was actually in the past – in memories of days gone by?
Recent research out of Denmark’s Happiness Research Institute suggests that we should focus more on creating great memories. Founder of the Institute, Meik Wiking, says that this is because happy memories have the power to counteract many negative emotions and feelings – like loneliness and anxiety.
These memories don’t even have to be significant, life-altering events. Often the simpler, the better, as it’s more about the positive feelings you experience that can be looked back on, no matter how big or small.
Need some inspiration to get started on your memory-making journey?
Here are a few tips.
1. Focus on what feels good
A nice hot bath, a walk along the beach or in the bush, gardening – whatever it is that makes you feel happy and content, set aside regular time to do it. By having a routine ‘appointment’ with yourself will keep it top of mind, making it easier to access those memories when you need a pick-me-up.
Click here for 32 free and easy self-care ideas.
2. Tune into all senses
From scent to sound, taste to touch, our senses are particularly key when it comes to fond memories. Thinking about these things too (rather than just what a memory looked like) can be very powerful.
3. Write it down
Whether it’s in a journal or a purposeful ‘one memory a day’ book, write down one thing each day that brought you joy – and again it doesn’t have to be huge and momentous. It could be laughing with your children, watching a favourite movie, or simply enjoying your morning cup of coffee. Reading back through these memories will be a lovely refresher from time-to-time.
5. Connect with others (digitally)
Often the best memories are those experienced with other people. From family to friends, share quality time with them to find laughter, warmth and a sense of togetherness. For people in your immediate bubble – those with whom you’re self-isolating – whip out a board game or work on a fun project that requires a bit of teamwork.
Connecting with family and friends in other households can also be fun. Create a WhatsApp family chat and share photos, activities and updates with each other, or start a Facebook Messenger video chat. That way, you can still connect with loved ones, near and far.
6. Take a photo (but not too many)
Photos are a wonderful tool for reminiscing – and, in our super busy lives, they are often needed to help recall special memories that may have been forgotten. So, when you do something special or enjoyable, make sure you take a photo or two to look back on. But just be cautious of taking too many – you want to live in the moment as well, taking in smells, tastes, sounds and feelings, as that is what will make the memory really come back to life.