To mark this International Happiness Day 20th March 2026, our ACL Mental Health and Wellbeing tutors have shared some simple yet effective ways that you can bring boost your everyday happiness and positivity. These practical tips are rooted in the approaches we teach across our Mental Health and Wellbeing courses, which are designed to support anyone looking to improve their mental resilience and emotional wellbeing.
Be Here Now
One of the most effective foundations for happiness is learning to slow down and connect with the present moment. Our tutors encourage a Nordic-inspired approach to mindfulness:
- Listen closely to the birdsong
- Notice the smell and taste of your morning coffee
- Pay attention to the colours and details around you
It’s about choosing to be, rather than constantly feeling the need to do. These small moments of awareness help reduce stress and create space for calm.
Take a Nature Reset
A short walk, even ten minutes, can lift your mood and help reduce overwhelm. This will therefore help you reconnect with yourself. Nature gently grounds us, offering a pause from the busyness of the day.
Check In With Yourself
Throughout the day, take a moment to ask, “How am I doing right now?” This simple check‑in supports emotional awareness, helps prevent burnout and encourages you to respond to your needs with more kindness.
Use Your Breath
Breathing techniques are a powerful tool for managing stress. Try box breathing:
Inhale for 4 — Hold for 4 — Exhale for 4 — Hold for 4.
Just a few rounds can help reset your body and mind.
Start With a Micro‑Joy
Begin your day with one small thing that brings you happiness this is completely up to you for example you could have a warm drink, play a song you love, spend few minutes of stretching. Small pleasures can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
Lighten Your Mental Load
A quick “mind dump” can help you feel more in control. Write down what’s on your mind, what you can influence, and what you can let go of today. It brings clarity and reduces overwhelm.
Make a Meaningful Connection
Happiness grows through connection. Take a moment to send a thoughtful message, share a memory or check in with someone you appreciate. These small interactions make a big difference.
Notice What Went Well
End your day by reflecting on one thing that went right—no matter how small. This gentle shift in focus helps improve mood and supports long‑term positive thinking.
Support Through ACL
Our mental health and wellbeing teams deliver a wide range of supportive courses to help learners build confidence, resilience and emotional wellbeing.
- Managing Overwhelm
- Positive Thinking for Stress Reduction
- Health and Wellbeing
- Self Care for Resilience
- Speakeasy: Breathing Techniques
- Creative Journalling
- Healthy Boundaries
- Resilient You
- Confident Conversations
These courses provide practical tools and supportive learning environments for anyone wishing to improve their mental health, reduce stress and build positive daily habits.
Wishing you a calm, grounded and joyful International Happiness Day!
From the ACL Essex Mental Health & Wellbeing Team
