What are the secret ingredients of happiness?

1) Smile. Smiling is an universal language understands by all. Smile denotes amusement, happiness, joy and in agreement. Whether you are in the jungle of the Amazon or in the metropolis of Mumbai, everyone understands the language smiling communicates. According to Dr. David Song, a plastic surgeon and Associate Professor at the University of Chicago Hospitals, it takes one more facial muscle to smile than to frown. From this technicality stand point, it makes perfect sense to smile more often as the net cost of smiling does not differ very much from frowning.  Take it easy, relax and smile. 

2) Socialize. We, human, are social creatures.   We tend to be happy when we are in a group.  The very term of Yoga means being in a group, to unite.  From making small talks via phone, instant message or texting, to deep philosophical conversations over dinner.  You should take every opportunity to socialize and mingle with the crowd.  There is a need to make socializing and make new friends a top priority in your life.  It should be a habit to socialize with strangers as well.  There are so many people on this planet.  People of different country of origin, religion, and race are fascinating.  It takes some practice to strike up a conversation with a stranger.  To do so, we would have to refer back to our 1) smile, maintain eye contact and say hi.

3) Spend Money.  There is an age old debate about can money buy happiness.  In fact, it can if we use the money wisely.  We should see the money as a tool.  You need to be a master of money, not a slave to money.  Meaning, you need to take control of how you spend your money.  In a consumer-driven society today, there is a need to live within your means.  This balancing act is something that you have to learn and master.  For example, would you be happy if you credit a plasma TV on your card knowing that the model of your plasma TV will be out of date in a year (slave), or would you be happy if you treat your dear friends out for a meal on your debit card to celebrate your recent promotion (master)?  The answer should be a no-brainer if you are reading this entry thus far.  So, the take away here is, you would be much happier if you use the money as a reward for your acheivement and hardwork.

Now, it’s up to you to try out these simple ingredients.  Let me know what happiness tastes like from your perspective.