The 4 Happiness Habits of Purim

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Parshat Zachor (Deuteronomy 25:17-19 )

How to live a life filled with happiness.

Purim is about unlocking the power of happiness. Happiness is a choice; it not dependent on external circumstances.

Purim conveys four practical tips on how to live a happy life. These four ‘happiness habits' are reflected through the four mitzvot of Purim.

1. Mishloach Manot, giving food gifts to friends and colleagues.

The recipient of this gift isn’t poor or needy, but rather a loved one or a friend. The first step to happiness is through building relationships with friends, family and community. Research shows that loving, social connections, caring and looking out for others, and having others care for us in return is the first step to living a happy life.

2. Matanot L’evyonim, giving charity to the poor.

Judaism teaches that one should spend at least 10% of his time and money devoted towards helping other people. Neuroscience research shows that when we do nice things for others, our brains light up in areas associated with pleasure and reward. If we train ourselves and our children to be givers, not merely receivers in this world, we are truly setting them on the path towards living a happy and fulfilled life.

3. Reading the Scroll of Esther.

The Megillah can be summarized as an account of the miracles that we experienced as a nation. The surest way to live life full of happiness is to write our own book of the miracles that occur in our lives. People who keep a “gratitude journal” feel more optimism and greater satisfaction in their lives. Certainly, we all have moments when we face hardship and challenge, but everyone experiences moments of meaning and satisfaction as well. If you live with an attitude of gratitude, you will surely live life as a happier and more fulfilled person.

4. The festive Purim meal.

The Purim feast is that moment where we pause to be mindful of who we are and what we have. Studies show that people who practice mindfulness, the moment-by-moment awareness of thoughts, feelings, and external circumstances, not only have stronger immune systems but are more likely to be happy and enjoy greater life satisfaction.

Implementing these four happiness habits into our daily routines will help us become happier and more satisfied people. This Purim, jumpstart your journey to happiness by fulfilling these four mitzvot with joy.

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