Feel-good pointers to enjoy life more

Harvard researchers tracked the health, wealth, and happiness of hundreds of subjects from their teens to their 80s. They found that it wasn't good genes or money that most influenced happiness: it was a capacity for enjoying the moment. We'll give you some tips on how to do it.

The researchers who conducted this study have a lot to say about being happy. Here are some tidbits:

• Play is not an easy skill for a grownup to master. We're wired as adults to do things that other people find valuable. That's how we earn a living and develop our sense of worth. But as we age, we become most happy when we do things simply because we enjoy them, rather than worrying about whether or not we're good at it or if others will like it.
• Take a lesson from a young child. "They don't have to be important. They don't get upset if their phone calls aren't returned. And they don't have to be paid for what they're doing" one researcher says.

• If you cling to old dreams and goals that haven't been fulfilled, you can become bitter.
• It's much better to focus on all of the good things that have happened in your life and to set new goals and plans for the future.
• Dreams aren't static things. They can grow and change as you move forward in life.

• Laughter releases endorphins that create a feeling of joy and euphoria, eases stress and tension, and creates balance in your life no matter what's going on.
• There's a long-term benefit, too: research has found that laughter prompts the delicate inner lining of blood vessels to expand, increasing blood flow to the heart and other organs.

• Studies show that faith, prayer, and the support of a religious community can cut stress and improve your odds of recovering from illness.
• Not religious? That's fine too! Having a rock-solid set of core beliefs seems to boost immunity and increase stress resilience. Try to find a community or group that shares your passions or hobbies.

With these simple pointers you can feel happier and healthier in no time. Sometimes some new mental habits and a bit of perspective is just what the doctor ordered.