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. But we get it: They’re bold color choices for every wall in your home so we recommend shooting for a few statement walls instead.
Fresh flowers
Even though there’s nothing more sad (or feels like a bigger waste of money) than throwing out dead flowers, consider these buds an investment for your happiness instead. Research conducted by Rutgers found that the presence of flowers trigger happy emotions and heightens feelings of life satisfaction. So go ahead, treat yourself to those peonies at the corner market.
Sentimental photos
If your nightstand is currently devoted to your latest read and a glass of water, you need to swap both out for some family photos ASAP. A study at the University of Portsmouth found that looking through old photos results in positive feelings and a sense of calmness.
Vanilla
There’s a reason you’re always inclined to light up a candle after a stressful day at work — it’s super relaxing. And apparently the scent of your candle has a major impact on your happiness too. If you want to improve your mood, a Chemical Senses study found that vanilla beans are super uplifting.
Journal
Outlets like exercise and therapy are super rewarding. But apparently writing in a journal doesn’t only contribute to your future mood, but also your future feelings. Research published in Psychological Science found that re-reading past entries (even if they’re as short as one sentence) can make you feel happier.
Furry Friend
There’s a reason dogs are nicknamed “man’s best friend.” 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.
Floral scents
The next time you pick out a new perfume or air freshener, might we recommend a rose bud smell? You see, scent receptors in your nose are linked to the part of your brain that determines your emotions and according to research from the Association for Psychological Science, floral scents can boost your feelings of happiness.
Bed made
We’re big believers in the power of making your bed every morning, because it helps you start your day on the right foot. And, 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. We think spending an extra two minutes tucking in your comforter is well worth these odds.
Less is more
According to UCLA’s Center of Everyday Lives and Families, there’s a link between high cortisol (a stress hormone) in women who own homes with a “high density of household objects.” Meaning the more stuff you have, the more stress women experience, because they associate a messy home with failure. So cut the clutter for a better chance at a calm and happy life.