Through My Eyes

There's something to be said for rare moments throughout the day that make us smile. Research shows expressing gratitude canincrease your overall well-being, from better relationships to better sleep.

This week I want to take some time in recalling some things to be thankful for? Moments to be grateful for every day, because honestly, it's the ordinary things that make life extraordinary.

Be grateful for...

1. Being a parent.Tiny humans are adorable and hilarious - but yours are the best, of course.

2. Your pet.Studies show pet ownership increases happiness.

3. Good hair days.Humidity is no one's friend.

4. Your health.The more you appreciate your well-being, the more you'll prioritize it.

5. Your close friends.Studies showhanging out with your BFFcan reduce stress.

6. The holidays.They don't call it "the most wonderful time of the year" for nothing.

7. Your child's face after they receive a present.That's what pure joy looks like.

8. Thank you notes.It feelsjust as good to send oneas it does to get one.

9. Opportunities to volunteer.Research shows helping others doesn't just make them feel good, but it alsoboosts your happiness.

10. Your co-workers.You spend the majority of your weekday waking hours with them. They definitely make that nine-to-five feel more bearable.

11. When your favourite song comes on the radio at the perfect moment. It's like destiny is on your side.

12. When you wake up before your alarm and get to roll back over.A few more hours to sleep? Score.

13. Not setting an alarm on the weekend.Score again.

14. When your dog is so happy to see you.Fido not only loves you unconditionally, research shows dogs consider you as family and relieve anxiety.

15. Your other half.It doesn't matter if it's a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife or just an awesome partner in crime. These relationships boost our well-being.

16. Vacations.Research showsplanning a trip boosts your happiness. Pick a place and head out.

17. Alone time.At times it can feel less precious than it truly is.Here's how to learn to embrace alone time.

18. Comfortable shoes.It's like walking on a pillow.

19. Sharing a smile with a stranger.Doing so increases your happiness.

20. Your parents.Studies show that calling your mom can reduce stress, so pick up that phone!

21. Friday nights.Really, is there any better feeling than knowing you have the next two days free?

22. The Ocean - the sound, the smell and the sheer splendor of the beauty surrounding us.

23. Being understood.There are some people who just get you, whether it's your penchant for being early to every social event or the fact that you cry when you get mad. And that's awesome.

24. Long weekends.The second best thing next to long weekends? Four-day workweeks.

25. Sunsets.Those little moments of awe increase feelings of well-being.

26. Flowers.They're aesthetically pleasing and it feels downright great when someone sends you some. What's not to like?

27. Having the bed all to yourself.You can basically drool, sleep diagonally, toss and turn or do whatever you want.

28. Your favourite comfort food.Mac 'n cheese tastes infinitely better when you're having a bad day, doesn't it?

29. A good cry.Research shows letting out your emotions can make you feel better than before you even got upset in the first place.

30. Your favourite scent.There's just something comforting about it. Plus,certain aroma seven benefit your well-being.

31. Fun workout classes.It doesn't matter if it's SoulCycle, aerial yoga or something else. The more engaged you are, the better the workout.

32. Handwritten snail mail.Texting has made letters essentially obsolete, so the gift of real mail should be treasured.

33. A night in.There's something calming in having no plans and the only person you have to answer to is the delivery guy knocking on your door.

34. When you accidentally get something for free.

35. Yourself.You deserve all the happiness and kindness in the world - don't forget it.

So take some time to be grateful and to reward yourself as well.