Easy Ways To Feel Happier

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Some days can be quite challenging. The next time you need a little pick me-up, try one of these suggestions to feel happier.

1.  Get Some Fresh Air

Head outside and get some fresh air to help raise your endorphins. A brisk walk will help to reduce stress and fatigue.

2.  Have A Warm Bath

A nice warm bath at the end of the day is the perfect way to unwind. A University of Wolverhampton study found that a warm bath significantly improved the mood and optimism of the participants.

3.  Give Someone A Hug

Hugging someone lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and stimulates oxytocin which helps to boost positive emotions.

4.  Take Deep Breaths

When you are feeling tense, you will take shallow breaths. Deep breathing helps send more oxygen to your cells which lowers blood pressure and helps release tension. It also boosts your immune system and gives you more energy.

5.  Buy Flowers

Flowers make us feel good. Rutgers behavioral researchers found that flowers elevate mood, increase feelings of life satisfaction and promote positive social behaviour.

How do you cheer yourself up?

Strawberry Smoothie Bowl

I have recently been enjoying smoothie bowls.  This smoothie is made from frozen strawberries, almond milk, frozen banana, water and protein powder.

I topped it with chia seeds and slices of banana.

Delicious!

Topping Ideas:

Bananas

Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)

Chia Seeds

Coconut Flakes

Granola

Mango Slices

Nuts

It takes about five minutes to make and they are creamy and satisfying.

Have you tried a smoothie bowl before?

Achieving Your Goals

5 Benefits of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a wonderfully healthy food, packed full of essential nutrients and are so easy to use. You can add them to smoothies or yogurts, sprinkle them over your salad, turn them into pudding or add them to homemade granola bars or muffins.

Here are 5 benefits of chia seeds.

1. Chia seeds are an excellent source of plant protein with all nine essential amino acids.

2.  They are rich in antioxidants which helps protect your body from free radical damage. Chia seeds help repair your cells, reduce inflammation and support a healthy digestive system.

3.  They are full of omega-3 fatty acids. 2 tbsp of chia seeds has as much omega-3 as a 4 oz fillet of salmon.

4.  Chia seeds support healthy bones and energy metabolism as they are high in the daily recommended intake of calcium (18%), phosphorus (35%) and magnesium (24%).

5.  Scientists believe chia seeds have great benefits for diabetics as studies show they can control blood sugar as they slow down how fast our bodies convert carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Have you tried chia seeds?

Five Ways To Pamper Yourself At Home

Life is busy but it's important to try and take time for yourself, even if it is only for a few minutes. A little time spent taking care of you gives your family the best mom she can be.

Here are five ways to pamper yourself at home.

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1.  Have a cup of tea

Take your time and enjoy it.  Savour each sip. I like to drink either orange pekoe or a fruit/herb blend such as Celestial Seasonings peach tea.

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2.  Take a hot bath (alone)

After the children are in bed, run a hot bath, light a candle and enjoy reading a good book. Optional extras are a bath pillow, epsom salts and relaxing music.

3.  Give Yourself A Facial

Try to take some time once a week to give yourself a facial. I like to use my favourite mineral masque from Shaklee's skincare line.

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4.  Paint Your Nails

Give yourself a manicure and make sure to rub in plenty of lovely hand cream to make your hands feel pampered.

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5.  Listen to Relaxing Music

Sit in a comfortable chair and listen to some relaxing music, while concentrating on your breathing. This will help you feel calm.

How do you pamper yourself?

Pomegranate Orange Water

This is such a pretty drink and it tastes delicious!

Ingredients:

1/2 lime
1/2 lemon
1 orange
2 tbsp pomegranate juice
ice cubes
sparkling water

Directions:

Squeeze the lime juice, lemon juice and orange juice into a glass. Pour in the pomegranate juice. Top with ice cubes and sparkling water.

Enjoy!

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