

Every year, March 20th marks the celebration of the UN International Day of Happiness. Never heard of it? That’s okay! You can participate this year by choosing one of these simple self-care practices to enjoy on March 20th to bring a bit of happiness and joy to the world.
About International Day of Happiness
It all started when the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution to recognize happiness as a “fundamental human goal” in 2011. This launched a call for “a more inclusive, equitable, and balanced approach to economic growth that promotes the happiness and well-being of all peoples.”
Health Benefits of Happiness
“There is a growing science showing the amazing benefits of being happy,” says Dr. Louis Tay of Purdue University. “It spills over to many important aspects of life and helps us in many ways. . . Happiness is not a self-indulgent emotion. It serves an essential function in our lives.”
Here are some of the many health benefits of happiness, as outlined by Dr. Tay:
- Happy people tend to have better relationships.
- Happiness often leads to improved productivity.
- When you’re happy, you’re more likely to engage in healthier behaviors like exercise.
- Happier people have better immune systems, higher resistance against colds, and faster wound healing.
- Happiness gives you better longevity. In other words – happier people live longer!
“Knowing this, I encourage us to rethink our notion of happiness – especially for those of us who relish the dour and morose,” said Dr. Tay. “Would you be willing to take steps to improve happiness in your life? You may start seeing benefits beyond the fleeting rush of positivity.”
How to Celebrate the International Day of Happiness

“Everyone wants a quick fix,” Dr. Kubzansky said. “But it’s not, ‘Let’s just watch more cat videos!’ Everyone needs to figure out what works for them and take care of their mental health just as much as they take care of their physical health.”
So, as you browse this list of self-care tips, look for ideas that speak to you! It’s all about what makes you happy.
Make Time for Calm
- Meditation
- Stargazing
- Journaling about your feelings
- Hiking or walking in nature
- Reading adventure stories
- Spending time outdoors
- Participate in cultural activities (e.g., see a concert or go to the museum)
- Spend time with friends
- Try to see things like a realistic optimist
- Garden
Make Time to Laugh
Here are some of the many ways you might make time for more laughter in your life:
- Watch funny videos on YouTube
- Watch funny movies or TV shows
- Watch or listen to standup comedians
- Pay attention to what makes you laugh (e.g., written comedy, funny podcasts, playing with your pet)
- Spend time with people who make you laugh
- Try to make your friends laugh
- Try laughter yoga
- Laugh more when you’re laughing (e.g., mentally encourage yourself to laugh harder and longer when something makes you laugh)
- Cultivate a playful attitude
- Try to laugh at least three times a day
Make Time for Exercise
For example, you might try some of the following activities for 30 minutes a day, five days a week:
- Walk in nature
- Hike
- Do yoga (laughter yoga, anyone?)
- Dance
- Play with your pet (it’s not just exercise, it’s also proven to increase happiness)
- Swim
- Hula hoop
- Go inline skating
- Jump rope
- Play frisbee with friends
- Learn a sport
Try Therapy
For example, if none of the ideas above work for you, a therapist can help you explore what YOU need to feel happy. They can help you find the habits that work and work with you to increase your happiness steadily.
Happiness has so many health benefits to offer. Why miss out on them? There’s nothing to lose from trying therapy, and there’s no shame in scheduling time to say whatever’s on your mind to an unbiased party once a week.
Try Therapy
A recent clinical study showed that Kailo is more effective than other prescription and over-the-counter medications, with no side effects! The study also showed a significant increase in quality of life when switching to Kailo from oral medication.
Disclaimer: Kailo should not be used if you have a pacemaker or are pregnant. Always consult your doctor or health care professional before using Kailo.

