Start 2016 With Life’s Simple Pleasures!

As we begin 2016, amidst all the thoughts of New Year’s Resolutions, perhaps we can remind ourselves more often to enjoy life’s simple pleasures — such as laughter.

“Laughter is a symptom of spirituality. Laughter is the flow of love coursing through your body. Laughter is the nectar of present moment awareness. Invite more laughter into your life and relish the magic in every moment.” —David Simon

Gratitude Brings Us Happiness

Gratitude does bring us happiness! In a series of recent research studies* strong relationships between Gratitude and Happiness were revealed, and findings indicate that gratitude enhances happiness, and grateful thinking improves one’s mood. In these various studies grateful people were characterized by their tendency to appreciate simple pleasures and a sense of abundance in their lives. Practicing gratitude has proven to be one of the most reliable methods for increasing happiness and life satisfaction; it also promotes feelings of optimism, joy, enthusiasm, contentment and other positive emotions. And in summary, these research findings suggest that gratitude many be an important component of the good life.

Here’s to a Very Happy and Abundant 2016!

*Research by Robert Emmons and colleagues at Greater Good Science Center — UC Berkeley