3 Ways to Live Longer, Love Better and Laugh Louder
We all want to live longer, love better, and laugh louder. This may seem easier said than done, but there are each of those goals without injecting more stress into your life.
The 3 simple practices I’ve outlined below only take 30 minutes to an hour in total, but their impact on your health and happiness may surprise you.
Here’s a little challenge for you: do each of these things daily for one week.
That’s it! Just 7 days.
Then leave a comment below letting me know what’s changed for you.
1. Drink a Green Smoothie
I know, everyone and their brother is telling you to drink a green smoothie every day. But I have to tell you, it’s because they’re on to something. Nothing makes me happier than an anti-inflammatory smoothie chock full of greens and berries.
They’re delicious, full of healthy fiber that your body needs for optimal health, and easy to put together in a flash before you head out the door. Here’s one of my favorite green smoothie recipes.
2. Move Your Body
This isn’t just about getting a sexier booty – although that can be a nice side effect. I want you to move your body because it lowers cortisol, revs up your metabolism, boosts serotonin, strengthens your joints, and de-ages you. Plus, exercise has also been shown to boost libido!
One great way to get active is by talking a brisk 30-minute walk. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you may want to get your stretch on and your blood flowing with a yoga class.
I cannot recommend yoga enough. It’s like a magical cure-all. Really. Studies have shown that regular yoga practice helps to lower inflammation and decrease stress levels and anxiety. Plus, it makes your body look fabulous.
I hear you saying, “But Dr. Sara, I don’t have time!”
Can you find 5 minutes for just one pose? Check out my Just One Pose series for free mini-videos with yoga poses you can start today.
My other favorite form of exercise? Dance like nobody’s watching. Have a mini dance party with your family, or just by yourself to your favorite tunes. Think of how 4-year olds just let it all hang out and laugh and dance with abandon. Put yourself in that space for just 5 minutes, and I think you’ll be amazed at how great you feel.
3. Laugh, Laugh, Laugh
Laughter really is some of the best medicine. It not only calms you mentally, it also induces actual physical changes in your body. It can stimulate circulation and help muscles relax, increase your intake of oxygen, stimulate your heart, lungs and muscles, and increase endorphins. Over the long-term laughter can help improve your immune system, and lessen depression and anxiety. Plus, it just feels good.
Don’t feel like laughing? Fake it ‘til you make it. Try turning the corners of your mouth up into a smile and give a laugh, even if it feels forced. Keep trying – especially if you can do it with a friend – and your fake laughter will soon turn more genuine and start delivering up its natural medicine.
If all else fails, take a big sip of your green smoothie and check out your green mustache in the mirror! Or for double points, consider a Laughter Yoga class (yes, it’s a yoga class all about getting you laughing with other people).
In my experience, these things tend to have a snowball effect, so get ready to find yourself happier, healthier, laughing more often, and feeling more love for yourself and others – in just 7 days.
I have a feeling you won’t want to stop.