Happiness, according to experts, is a state of complete satisfaction, joy, and enjoyment of life. Since it is an internal feeling, everyone has their unique way of achieving happiness, and the concept itself varies from person to person.
Canadians ranked 11th in the 2021 World Happiness Report, which evaluates countries based on factors such as social support and freedom of choice. While this is a commendable result, how can those experiencing depression or struggling with deeply rooted negative emotions find happiness? Calgary psychologists offer several reliable methods, as shared on calgarynka.
Focus on Positivity
According to Flourish Psychological Services, people experiencing depression tend to focus on negative aspects of life, overlooking joyful moments.
It’s not about deceiving oneself into thinking positively; it’s about training the mind to recognize when it fixates on negativity, thereby consciously managing emotional states.
Life situations are rarely entirely positive or negative, but how we interpret them greatly impacts our emotional well-being. The ability to filter information effectively is an excellent way to maintain control over one’s life.
A study published in The Journal of Happiness Studies in 2008 revealed that women are generally happier than men—but only up to a certain age. Researchers analyzed data from 47,000 participants and found that women are happier than men in their 20s. However, by age 48, this gap closes, with men reporting higher levels of happiness.
Practice Gratitude
Another effective method is to approach situations with gratitude. Calgary psychologists recommend taking five minutes each evening to write down three things you are grateful for—whether it’s a pet, freshly baked bread, a steady job, or a sunny day. Studies show that this habit reminds people of the good aspects of their day and encourages them to be more receptive to positive experiences in the future.
Gratitude doesn’t mean self-deception. You don’t have to convince yourself that you love your job if you truly don’t. However, you can be grateful for simply having a job. A positive mindset helps people overcome future challenges more effectively.
Understand That It’s Temporary
Recognizing the temporary nature of emotions can significantly ease one’s situation. Sadness doesn’t always indicate depression. Emotions are simply energy that changes based on circumstances. Over time, negativity will fade, and understanding this can restore a positive outlook.
To expedite the transition from negative to positive emotions, try faking a smile—this triggers the same neurons as a genuine smile. Physical activities are another great option, as they stimulate the production of dopamine, endorphins, serotonin, and oxytocin—the “happiness hormones.”
If you’re feeling down, spend a few minutes watching a funny video or doing some light exercise. For more intense workouts, consider a sport. Calgary, a city rich in sporting opportunities, offers options like Calgary Minor Soccer (youth soccer league) and Calgary Minor Hockey (youth hockey league).
Golf is also a popular activity, with dozens of golf courses available in the city. The season typically runs from May to October. The Rocky Mountains make Calgary a prime destination for rock climbing, with practice facilities like the Calgary Climbing Centre or the Calgary Mountain Club. For outdoor climbing, consider locations such as Yamnuska Mountain near Canmore or the west side of Lake Louise.
Canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts can explore Glenmore Reservoir, Elbow River, or Bow River, starting at the Calgary Canoe Club. For sailing, check out Glenmore Sailing School or the Calgary Yacht Club.
Meditate
Meditation has been used for centuries to improve mental health. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and constant problem-solving are the norms, meditation can help individuals relax and organize their thoughts.
Several meditation centres operate in Calgary. For instance, YogaMcc, a yoga and meditation studio, was established in Marda Loop in 2002. It offers classes designed to relieve stress and inspire personal growth and self-discovery.
Another notable centre is Sahaja Yoga, founded by Indian spiritual leader Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi. Shri Mataji’s family was actively involved in India’s independence movement, and she herself joined the cause as a young woman. Later, she studied medicine at Christian Medical College in Ludhiana and Lahore. In 1970, near Mumbai, she discovered a unique spiritual gift and dedicated her life to sharing it with others.
Shri Mataji developed a technique to awaken Kundalini energy (dormant energy at the base of the spine) through simple efforts. She traveled worldwide, teaching people how to achieve self-realization using her methods.
Sahaja Yoga Calgary offers free meditation programs across the country, accessible to people of all ages, ethnicities, and cultures. These programs promote mental and physical health, well-being, and a higher quality of life.
For those who prefer digital options, meditation apps like Headspace can be effective tools for improving emotional well-being and noticing the joys of everyday life. Time spent in self-reflection is always a valuable investment.
Flourish Psychological Services is a team of psychologists providing personalized, high-quality therapy to Calgarians since 2011. They offer consultations for individuals and couples, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, addiction, anger management, and family conflicts. Adolescents are supported in overcoming bullying, family disputes, identity challenges, and friendship issues. Their methods are rooted in scientific research.
Seeking help from a qualified therapist when obstacles feel overwhelming can be the best way to care for yourself and ultimately achieve happiness.