Why You *Should* Do Hard Things

If you're not a big fan of "Type2 Fun" - activities that tend to feel more joyful once they're over (hi, triathlons!) - you might miss out on some major mind and body benefits. Let Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self, explain.

I RECENTLY SPENT A MONTH ON A BACKCOUNTRY HUNT IN THE NAME OF PURSUING DISCOMFORT - YES, PURSUING IT - FOR MY HEALTH. Scientists are finding that certain challenges, particularly ones we don't experience in our modern world, can actually protect us from issues like heart disease, cancers, diabetes, depression, and anxiety - and even problems like feeling a lack of purpose.

The upside is that you don't have to go on an extreme expedition to find the right kind of unease. These three milder moves help you explore your edges and deliver a solid dose of happiness, calm and perspective.

Up Your Outside Time