6 experts share the simple ways they stay happy
1. Ellie Coverdale, psychologist (Ukwritings.com)
- Happiness isn’t a finish line – it’s a side effect of living honestly and staying connected.
- Advises clients to:
- Keep a gratitude list (3 things a day).
- Spend 10 minutes outside.
- Make time for loved ones.
- Notice what drains or boosts energy.
- Allow all feelings without judgment.
- Her own habits: unplugging in the evenings, walking without her phone, unhurried coffee with loved ones.
2. Katherine Cavallo, psychotherapist (UKCP spokesperson)
- Strong, supportive relationships are the biggest influence on mental health.
- Evidence-based tools like mindfulness, gratitude and self-compassion help, but connection is key.
- Her own habit: wild swimming – a combination of nature, mindfulness, and social connection.
3. Dr Sheena Kumar, chartered psychologist (drsheenakumar.com)
- Adjusted work hours to avoid burnout and added more support.
- Stays up to date with research in wellbeing, nutrition and exercise.
- Faith gives her purpose and perspective.
- Connection with family and friends is her “happy place.”
Life is busy, so while I’d love to journal, meditate, or volunteer more, those aren’t things I currently have space for, and I don’t pressure myself about it.
4. Dr Hannah Nearney, psychiatrist (Flow Neuroscience)
- Happiness is an “inside job” – gratitude, presence, joy in small things.
- Believes being easily pleased is an underrated superpower.
- Her happiness practices include:
- Gratitude and noticing small positive moments.
- Daily walks in nature.
- Playing with her dog.
- Listening to upbeat music.
- Exercise even when not in the mood.
- Staying connected with loved ones.
- Dressing in colourful clothes.
- Keeping humour and playfulness alive.
5. Eloise Skinner, author and psychotherapist (eloiseskinner.com)
- Happiness starts with knowing your own values and what fulfils you.
- Suggests asking: “What matters most to me? What makes me feel alive?”
- Her practice: scheduling movement and dance into her calendar weekly, and checking in with her values regularly.
6. Mark Vahrmeyer, psychotherapist (UKCP spokesperson)
- Happiness is fleeting, not a permanent state or life goal.
- Contentment is more achievable – it comes from meaning, purpose, and values.
- Warns against benchmarking life against others’ expectations.
- Says gratitude is a powerful antidote to depression.
- Personally values meaning and resilience over constant happiness.
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You can be happy! Find out what psychologists do every day to stay upbeat.
