A Guest Blog for International Day of Happiness by Cheryl Rickman

March 20 is International Day of Happiness and this year's theme is “Happier Together”, focusing on what we have in common, rather than what divides us. In The Happiness Bible, wellbeing author Cheryl Rickman explores what we can do to widen and deepen our connection with each other.

Community Matters

Today, with social media becoming all-consuming, we are more connected than we have ever been, in a virtual sense; but in reality, studies have revealed that many people still feel alone. All the more reason to make an effort to increase real-world connections. As well as forging strong bonds with those we are especially fond of, it’s important to build “bridging connections” to unite different groups within a community.

The start of a new year is often a time for starting fresh, when we look ahead to the future and focus on new projects and personal growth.

It seems only fitting that the New Year arrives during the heart of winter, at least where we’re from, so that by the time spring rolls around and the earth is coming to life we too feel refreshed, energized, and ready to bloom into our new and improved selves.

Our personal growth so far this year has involved learning how to brew the perfect pot of tea and making strides towards learning a new language.  We’ve also reconnected with our youthful energy and given gymnastics a try, and now we want to take things a step further and nurture ourselves from the inside out by following the advice of gardening expert Emily Murphy to find joy in the simple things and grow something fresh and delicious.

Emily’s philosophy for gardening — and for life — is simple: when you cultivate joy and growing in all parts of your life, wonderful things will happen. In other words: grow what you love.

August can be a stressful month. Between planning last-minute vacations and preparing for back-to-school season, the juggling act that is late summer can take its toll on even the most zen personalities.

Thankfully, National Relaxation Day has arrived just in time! This impeccably timed day of mindfulness and rest offers the perfect excuse to step back from the hustle and bustle and focus on restoring balance to your mental and spiritual health.

To kick-start your relaxation, we’ve combed through our extensive library of self-help books for the best relaxation tips our expert authors have to offer.

Take a second for some self-care with these expert-recommended relaxation techniques. And breathe…