March 20th is the International Day of Happiness and the theme for this year is ‘Keep Calm. Stay Wise. Be Kind’. Of course, this is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But how do we define ‘happiness’? Does happiness mean the same to you as it does to others? Does it even make a difference to our lives?
There are many things that make us ‘happy’ and although happiness is not necessarily the overarching goal for everyone in life, it is pretty important as it has some undeniably positive factors.
According to Positive Psychology, happy people smile more, they have more friends, they are more helpful and have a positive influence on others. They also exercise more often, eat more healthily, are happy with what they have and generally live longer than those who are unhappy.
The Covid-19 pandemic, however, has had a profound effect on the lives of many. The interventions, which include social distancing, national lockdowns, closure of non-essential workplaces and schools, and limiting of daily movement and social gatherings, have disrupted day-to-day lives. Not being able to visit or hug family members will have impacted on the happiness of even the happiest of people.
As we face this ongoing global crisis together, this year’s International Day of Happiness is a chance to find uplifting and positive ways to look after ourselves – and each other.
There are lots of things outside our control, but lots of things we can control. If the weather is good, take a walk in the sunshine. FaceTime or Zoom call your family or friends. Watch a ‘feel good’ movie. All these things will help you to keep calm, breathe and focus on what really matters so you can respond constructively.
Each person has different ideas about what is important and what makes them feel best. Making your own choices about the things you do is very important because it gives your life meaning. Making wise choices about what is important to you helps you be more independent and in charge of your life. Choose positive actions that support your well- being and help others do the same.
We’re all in this together, even when we’re forced apart. It’s important to stay connected and reach out to help others who may be in need. Kindness has been shown to increase self- esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. Despite the worry and challenges Covid-19 has brought, we’ve seen groups appearing on social media, in the local community, all reaching out to try to help others through. And of course, kindness = happiness.
Whatever happens next, whatever challenges we may face, let’s all respond in the calmest, wisest and kindest way we can.
BulliesOut provide anti-bullying help, support and information to individuals, schools, youth settings and the workplace. Learn more at bulliesout.com. Follow the Host news page and social media pages (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) for more tips, advice and guidance.
To become more ‘environmentally friendly’, Host is launching the #HostEnvironmentalPledge campaign to encourage responsible behaviour and drive sustainability across our sites throughout the UK and Ireland.
It’s a simple campaign! For every percent we reduce our overall utilities (electric, water and gas) consumption by we donate to one of our nominated charities.
Show me all newsYou will need money for a range of things during your time in University, ranging from food and travel to accommodation and uni supplies. What you need will depends on your particular circumstances, but we have created an exhaustive list to ensure you can plan ahead and save for your university experience.
You’ve packed everything that you can physically fit into your family car. And said goodbye (tearful or otherwise) to your friends back home. Pulling up to your new uni home will be a bit of a whirlwind. Between finding somewhere to park and what you will need to take into reception to check in on move in day. Move in day can feel stressful, but the main thing is that once it’s over and you’re in your new room – the fun can begin.
Being a student can be a little expensive, especially when some find that their maintenance loans don't cover the basics and due to the cost of living crisis. So, be sure to make the most of your student discount while you can. We have been busy finding the best student discounts this Freshers for you. Take a look at some of the best discounts we believe you need to know about right now.
