Activate your 'happy hormones'

Fewer daylight hours and busier schedules leave 57% of us on edge. But who wants to deal with prescription drug side effects like GI upset or fatigue? Try natural mood lifters instead

To feel stress-free...
guffaw with gusto

Finnish research shows that exaggerating your laughter (even if it's forced) releases a flood of endorphins, pleasure-boosting hormones responsible for curbing tension and bringing on a euphoric feeling. Plus, the rhythmic action of laughing stimulates the vagus nerve, which University of Pittsburgh Medical Center research shows increases endorphin release.

To feel happier... 
let the sun in

Exposure to natural light triggers the release of serotonin, and shorter days can leave us with a shortfall of this happiness hormone. A workaround: Sit closer to the window during breakfast. Bright morning light resets the body clock to spur serotonin release, lifting spirits as effectively as Prozac, shows German research. Cloudy day? Start your day with a fun 3-minute cat video. Blue light from a phone boosts serotonin in the brain, suggests University of Arizona research.

To feel loved...
pick up the phone