International Day of Happiness 20 March 2021

19 March, 2021

Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people all over the world.

Today, the UN invites people of all ages, in every classroom across the globe, and businesses and government organisations to join in the celebration of International Day of Happiness!

Why should we celebrate today?

Initiated by Bhutan, a South-Asian country who recognised the value of national happiness over national income since the early 1970s has meant that International Day of Happiness has taken centre stage. The day is supported by a host of partnerships comprising like-minded organizations and countries that have joined forces to recognize that to support economic growth, matters like wellbeing and the happiness of each and every worker should be counted as primary actions. International Day of Happiness exists to remind us all that 'happiness' needs to take precedence over economic growth.

Today has now become a 'fundamental human goal' that adopts a more inclusive, equitable and ecological approach to growth and that promotes the happiness and well-being of all people.

Themes for 2021

This year, the themed response is in relation to the COVID-19 Pandemic. It has 3 different Themes which are:

Keep Calm - Don’t forget to breath and focus on the things you CAN control.
Stay Wise - making wise choices helps everyone, so let's choose positive actions that support both ours and other's wellbeing.
Be kind - we're all in this together, even when we're apart. So let’s choose connection and reach out to help others in need.

Facts about Happiness

Did you know that having a positive mindset is responsible for as much as 90% of your feelings and wellbeing? It's true! The science of happiness is one of the most valuable areas of studies around the world and concentrates on the question: How can we both find and increase happiness?

People who are happy tend to live longer and suffer fewer health problems, and happier people are less likely to have health problems such as high blood pressure, heart issues - and so on.

Scientists also conclude that the key to human wellness are strong social ties and a clear sense of purpose.

Resources

A free downloadable Thirty Day Coping Calendar is available to support new and innovative 'actions for happiness'.

Plus, you can join the latest Ten Days of Happiness email-based coaching program and sign up to receive new happiness ideas over a ten day period from the science of positive psychology. You'll discover new ways to boost wellbeing for yourself and others in doing so!

And for kids Tes has some super resources shown below:

Lastly, here's a great video resources for both kids and grown-ups. Who doesn't love celebrating Good Health and Wellbeing with The Smurfs!