We all want to be healthy and happy, don’t we? We want to have more energy, feel lighter and more relaxed, and enjoy life more.
Yet sometimes our lives seem so hectic that it becomes hard to feel fulfilled. We start to feel overwhelmed, stressed out, burned out, and even disconnected from what’s truly important.
The good news is that it’s not always necessary to make major changes to your lifestyle in order to become happier and healthier.
Sometimes the small everyday habits that add up can make all the difference. If you’ve been wondering, “How can I feel better? How can I have more energy? How can I enjoy life more?” then read on for my list of 18 practical ways to be healthy and happy.
How To Be Healthy & Happy
1. Practice gratitude first thing in the morning
A healthy mind is the foundation for the rest of your life. It sets the tone for your day. That’s why you should spend a few minutes first thing in the morning thinking about what you’re grateful for.
Say a silent prayer of thanks for your good health, your loved ones, your home, your job, or whatever else you’re grateful for that day. Practicing gratitude is a simple way to reduce stress and increase happiness without effort.
Related: 6 Ways To Practice Gratitude When Depressed
2. Eat real, whole foods
The fuel you put into your body matters. If you want to have more energy, feel lighter, and maintain a positive mood, you should be eating real foods as much as possible.
That means foods close to their natural form. Load up on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins.
Eating a healthy diet of nutritious, whole foods is one of the best things you can do for your body, your mood, and your energy levels.
3. Drink lots of water
Water is one of the single most important things you can give your body. It flushes out toxins, boosts your energy, and aids digestion.
Staying hydrated is especially important if you’re trying to lose weight. Make sure you’re getting at least 6–8 glasses of water every day. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, add lemon, cucumber, or mint for flavor.
Related: 20 Habits Of Happy Couples That Keep Them Happy Daily
4. Move your body every day
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to boost endorphins, feel great, and reduce stress. You don’t have to spend hours in the gym.
Just make sure you move your body daily. Take a brisk 20-minute walk, dance in your living room, or practice some gentle yoga. Consistency will bring noticeable improvements in your mood and energy levels.
5. Prioritize your sleep
Sleep is when your body and mind recover and heal from the day. Not getting enough sleep can negatively affect your mood, focus, and long-term health.
Develop a soothing bedtime routine and try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Avoid screens (phones, laptops, etc.) an hour before bed, and aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep every night.
Related: 12 Daily Habits To Stay Happy In A Relationship
6. Practice mindfulness or meditation
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment. It is one of the best ways to let go of stress and worry and an excellent way to boost happiness levels.
If you take a few minutes each day to meditate, practice mindfulness, or simply sit and be present, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your mood. If you’ve never tried meditation before, start with deep breathing exercises or a guided session.
7. Spend time in nature
Fresh air and sunshine are two of the best natural mood boosters. Try to spend some time outside every day, even if only for a few minutes.
Whether it’s walking in the park, gardening, or sitting on the beach, being in nature helps reduce stress and improves your sense of well-being.
Related: 100 Things That Make Me Happy
8. Connect with loved ones
Spending quality time with people we love—and who love us—is one of the most important things we can do for our happiness. Take the time to connect with family and friends regularly, even if it’s just a quick phone call or a cup of coffee. Strong, healthy relationships are key to a happy life.
9. Laugh more
Laughter really is the best medicine. It reduces stress hormones, boosts your immune system, and makes you feel good. Watch a funny movie, tell jokes, or simply allow yourself to be silly and laugh more often.
10. Limit your screen time
We live in a world full of screens. We check our phones dozens of times a day, watch TV, and sit in front of computers for hours. While technology has benefits, too much screen time drains energy and affects mood. Set limits: no phone scrolling before bed, take regular device breaks, and have more face-to-face conversations.
11. Practice kindness
Doing something kind for someone else—big or small—creates a ripple effect of happiness. Whether it’s paying a compliment, holding the door, or volunteering, kindness connects you with others and boosts your sense of fulfillment.
12. Keep learning
Education doesn’t end with school. Learning new things is one of the best ways to feel fulfilled and happy. Take up a hobby, read books, or learn a new skill. Growth brings fulfillment.
13. Create healthy boundaries
Being healthy and happy means protecting your peace of mind. Learn to say no when needed, and don’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself. Setting healthy boundaries reduces stress and improves relationships.
14. Be kind to yourself
You don’t need to be your own worst critic. One of the best ways to boost happiness is to treat yourself like a good friend. Be patient, loving, and respectful toward yourself. Everyone makes mistakes, and growth takes time. You are just as worthy of love and respect as anyone else.
15. Declutter your space
Your environment affects your mood. A cluttered space often leads to a cluttered mind. If you want to feel lighter and more relaxed, spend time decluttering your surroundings. Whether it’s your desk, closet, or entire house, clearing space helps you feel calmer and more present.
16. Limit your exposure to negative energy
Pay attention to the people and influences you allow into your life. Surrounding yourself with negativity—whether people, news, or toxic conversations—will affect your own energy. Protect yourself by setting limits and avoiding negativity whenever possible.
17. Celebrate the small wins
Happiness isn’t just about big goals. It can be found in small, everyday moments. Celebrate the little wins, whether it’s finishing a workout, completing a project, or simply making it through a tough day. Acknowledging progress keeps you motivated and grateful.
18. Live with purpose
One of the most important ways to be happy is to live with meaning and purpose. Think about what you love, what makes you feel alive, and what you can contribute to the world. Aligning your life with your values and passions makes life far more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Being healthy and happy doesn’t have to be complicated or perfect. Often, it’s the small things we do daily that make the biggest difference. If you want to be happy and live a healthy life, practice the tips I shared above and see how your life will change.
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