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I will try to create more happiness and less unhappiness in the world around me

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Take care of your body

Our body and our mind are connected. Being active makes us happier as well as being good for our physical health. It instantly improves our mood and can even lift us out of a depression.

We don't all need to run marathons - there are simple things we can all do to be more active each day. And we can also boost our well-being by unplugging from technology, getting outside and - importantly - making sure we get enough sleep!  Read more

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  • Website:
    Change for Life

    Tips and ideas to help you and your family be more active and eat more healthily

  • Website:
    Bike Hub

    Information and inspiration to help get you cycling

  • Download:
    Improve Your Sleep

    The impact of sleep on health and wellbeing

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How do you stay active and healthy?

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I try to walk regularly in the fresh air but probably don't do it enough. I try to energise myself by dancing to the radio with my 4 year old daughter - that definitely makes her happy too!

Pippa, Northants, UK2 Sep 2010, 13:31

I tend to go in cycles when it comes to exercising, but I definitely notice I am calm when I do exercise. The older I get, the harder it is to stay in shape, so I like to do group classes; I used to run a lot, but now I need more effort on every bit of me - not just calorie burning. When I am exercising consistently, I do it about twice a week. I also walk every where, and occassionally ride my bike - I don't own a car so I get lots of opportunity to do this. It gives me plenty of time to tick over my thoughts!

Charlotte, Bristol, UK2 Sep 2010, 13:31

University doesn't allow much sleep, but yes i do try to be active and healthy. I cycle everywhere, play football besides coaching and look after what i eat. A balanced diet is very important. Also, i don't drink or smoke…

Claudio Assuncao, London, UK2 Sep 2010, 13:31
One of my favourite times of the week is my weekend run across the stunning Richmond Park near where we live. As a dad to three little ones I don't find as much time as I used to for exercise, but getting outdoors with them is great. My big problems are finding enough time for sleep and relaxation - and remembering to put my iPhone down! Mark, Kingston, Surrey2 Sep 2010, 13:31

Happiness facts

Our happiness is not set in stoneAlthough our genes influence about 50% of the variation in our personal happiness, our circumstances (like income and environment) affect only about 10%.

As much as 40% is accounted for by our daily activities and the conscious choices we make. So the good news is that our actions really can make a difference.

Happiness is good for your heart

Harvard School of Public Health examined 200 separate research studies on psychological wellbeing and cardiovascular health.

Optimism and positive emotion were found to provide protection against cardiovascular disease, to slow progression of heart disease and reduce risk, by around 50%, of experiencing a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack.

 

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