Get and stay happy at home! According to a variety of scientific studies, there are colors, scents, and accessories you should have in your home to improve your chances for complete and utter happiness. Take a look, and see if one, some, or all of these items are part of your home!
1. Fresh flowers
Research conducted by Rutgers found that being in the presence of flowers triggers happy emotions and heightens feelings of life satisfaction. Consider a bunch of posies an investment in your happiness.
2. Sentimental photos
If your nightstands or end tables are purely functional, you may want to change things a little. Swap in some family photos ASAP. A study at the University of Portsmouth found that looking at old photos results in positive feelings and a sense of calm.
3. Vanilla candles
While it may not be your favorite ice cream flavor, vanilla is apparently a kick-ass mood elevator! A Chemical Senses study found that vanilla beans are super uplifting. So go ahead and light up a vanilla scented candle after a stressful day — it’ll help you relax.
4. Green or yellow walls
Out of the entire rainbow, a study from Vrije University in Amsterdam found that these two hues evoked the most feelings of happiness. They’re bold color choices, though, for every wall in your home, so maybe try a few statement walls instead.
5. Furry friends
This one’s a no-brainer. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that pets provide meaningful support for owners, helping them with social isolation and ultimately improving their lives. In other words, having a pet makes us happy!
6. Floral scents
The next time you pick out a new perfume or air freshener, try one that’s floral. The scent receptors in your nose are linked to the part of your brain that determines your emo
tions. And according to research from the Association for Psychological Science, floral scents can boost your feelings of happiness.
tions. And according to research from the Association for Psychological Science, floral scents can boost your feelings of happiness.
7. A journal
While exercise or therapy can contribute to your current state of mind, writing in a journal contributes to your future mood. Research published in Psychological Science found that re-reading old entries (even if they’re short) can make you feel happier.
8. A made bed
Never underestimate the power of making your bed every morning. According to a survey by Hunch.com, 71% of people who make their beds consider themselves happy — while 62% of non-bed-makers say they’re unhappy. Wow! Totally worth spending two extra minutes tucking in your comforter.
9. And remember: Less is more
According to UCLA’s Center of Everyday Lives and Families, there’s a link between high cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in women who own homes with a “high density of household objects.” In other words, the more stuff you have, the more stressed out you feel. So cut the clutter for a better chance at a calm and happy life.