ARTICLES & BLOG
Looking Forward and Creating Magic
Having things to look forward to has a positive impact on us. The holiday or the together that you have planned; you enjoy the anticipation leading up to the event sometimes more than the actual event. Looking forward also can fill us with hope. I’ve enjoyed planning things and having activities to look forward to, they have helped to navigate the turbulent experiences life gives us.
Self Care Retreat
Having things to look forward to has a positive impact on us. The holiday or the together that you have planned; you enjoy the anticipation leading up to the event sometimes more than the actual event. Looking forward also can fill us with hope. I’ve enjoyed planning things and having activities to look forward to, they have helped to navigate the turbulent experiences life gives us.
In December I worked on the Year Compass and the Mel Robbins Best Year planner that I have shared in the Happy Life Habits WhatsApp Community. I filled out the planners, looking back on the last year and the plans for the forthcoming year. In addition to more corporate opportunities two I had added as dream/stretch goals were : (1) A retreat and (2) a TED Style talk.
I am excited that plans are progressing for both of these faster than anticipated. This is due to the power of goal setting visualisation, planning, nurturing relationships, taking action. In doing these I set my subconscious in motion and when the opportunities came or I created it was like magic.
In the supermarket after not being in direct touch for many years I bumped into good friend of mine, Saijal. We had served together as volunteers with the Young Jains community. We re-connected and later she reached out with an idea of doing a self care retreat together. I am looking forward to it, sharing our individual skills and experiences to offer great value to the attendees.
We are organising a 3 night / 4 day Self Care Retreat in the Autumn:
Invest in yourself at this self care retreat in a beautiful setting whilst connecting with like-minded people
The retreat offers yoga, breathwork, meditation, gratitude, journaling sessions as well as group life coaching workshops.
Share open discussions & conversations
Providing you with self care tools to be the best version of yourself to perform your various roles.
Get in touch to express interest for more details.
In relation to the TED Style talk, I have been booked for a private session for International Day of Happiness to share about Happiness. Do get in touch if you have any opportunities.
Happiness Boosters: A Shot of Positivity
In addition to the various workshops and talks for the corporate space, businesses, organisations and charities we are offering Happiness Boosters: A Shot of Positivity. BOOST Wellbeing, Productivity, Resilience & Positivity. A fun, interactive, small group, online / in person Happiness Booster that lifts the mood, energy & connection. Designed to support Mental, Emotional, Social Wellbeing & Positive Growth Mindsets. Scientific proven practices (e.g. Gratitude, Mindfulness, Kindness ).
Book this for you team, Department, Clients, Networking / Community / Charity Group
Team building, Wellbeing Days, Mental Health Days. Offsites, Ice Breaker, Orientations, Retreats, Conferences
For each referral you give that leads to a booking we will reward you with the option of: A Happiness Journal or 10% off Happy Life Habits Training courses/workshops or 45 min 1:2:1 coaching session.
Happiness Boosters: A Shot of Positivity. BOOST Wellbeing, Productivity, Resilience & Positivity.
Social Connection - International Day of Happiness
Many a time we have shared the importance of social connection and positive relationships for our happiness and wellbeing. Our Social Connection offering comes together for a meal, conversation and celebration. Last year we gathered in Autumn for Diwali/ Thanksgiving. Our next one is in March for International Day of Happiness.
Join the HLH Social Connection WhatsApp Group if interested.
HLH Book Club
In the 2 book club sessions we have had interesting conversations. Each of us is reading the Arete book at our own pace. We are coming together and sharing our insights, application and seeking perspectives and clarity. It is a great learning opportunity. Some recent information on Brain Health highlighted the benefits of continuous learning, social connection, nutrition and movement for good brain health and to reduce chances of Dementia,
One conversation has been on the Viktor Frank quote:
“BETWEEN STIMULUS AND RESPONSE THERE IS A SPACE.
IN THAT SPACE LIES OUR FREEDOM AND POWER TO CHOOSE OUR RESPONSE.
IN THOSE CHOICES LIES OUR GROWTH AND OUR FREEDOM (HAPPINESS)”
One has been what do we do to create that space to choose our response and another what does it mean by Freedom? Send your answers on a postcard or join the Book Club!
We have also looked at Energy from the Energy, Work and Love triplet. Choosing something we can commit to do, as a small change between one Book Club session and the next in order to put the theory into action. Various actions chosen such as : more walking, less sweets, no biscuits or fizzy drinks for 10 of the 14 days, going to bed earlier and drinking more water. We share our experiences at the next session and choose another small action to commit to for the next 2 weeks.
Happy Life Habits Book Club
Happy Life Habits 21 Day Challenge: Reverence
Before the pandemic and lockdowns started in 2020 I had hosted a 21 Day challenge. It helped me very much during this period that I continued to host a further 4 in subsequent months on themes of gratitude, kindness, simple living and mindfulness.
21 Day challenges are a great way to get new perspectives, shift mindset, develop discipline, consistency, learn, connect and grow.
I am hosting another free 21 Day Challenge on the theme of Reverence starting at the end of Feb and running till International Day of Happiness on March 20.
To join the challenge and receive the daily challenge emails click here :
https://www.kindspring.org/challenge/join/2239/
In addition this time we have a HLH Challenge WhatsApp Group where details of zoom catch ups during the challenge period will be shared.
Join the Happy Life Habits Challenge WhatsApp group for potential zoom sessions during the challenge.
Here is an example of one of the daily emails.
To join the challenge and receive the daily challenge emails click here :
30 Day Gratitude & Journaling Habit Immersion Training Course for Growing Around Grief
In recent months we have experienced grief with anniversary of the death of my father, death of my father in law and other death anniversaries and losses. Gratitude and Journaling helps big time.
We have adapted our core 30 Day Gratitude and Journaling Habit Immersion Training Course to offer support for Growing around Grief. The live zoom sessions will have activities and exercises related to growing around grief plus opportunity to share and support each other.
The Positive Grief Talk will be part of this offering.
Dates are being finalised, you can join waiting list.
Shaileen Shah - Happy Life Habits Coach, Speaker & Trainer
Happy Life Habits rewires hearts & minds for better productivity, happiness and wellbeing in 10 minutes a day. We help you move out of the comfort zone and into the learning/growth zones. Our products and services help develop habits and continuous personal development.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list and join the Happy Life Habits Community WhatsApp Group
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
Happy Life Habits Positively Impacting Happiness & Wellbeing Levels
LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE
The blog was not planned. The fantastic Mel Robbins video The World Needs Your Light prompted a thread connecting various content. The essence is about being the light, shining our light. This is by living and expressing our virtues, qualities and values. The World Values Day and the Book Club help by recognising the values and virtues that are important to us, how we become Heroic in expressing them each day to be our best and contribute to positively serving the world.
For those who have joined the book club or ordered the book from Happy Life Habits watch this video on the Heroic 7 Objectives to get a sense of what the book is about and how we use it to be our Heroic Self.
Mombasa beach sunrise by Meerav Shah
The blog was not planned. The fantastic Mel Robbins video The World Needs Your Light prompted a thread connecting various content. The essence is about being the light, shining our light. This is by living and expressing our virtues, qualities and values. The World Values Day and the Book Club help by recognising the values and virtues that are important to us, how we become Heroic in expressing them each day to be our best and contribute to positively serving the world.
For those who have joined the book club or ordered the book from Happy Life Habits watch this video on the Heroic 7 Objectives to get a sense of what the book is about and how we use it to be our Heroic Self
This uplifting, catchy song by Aswad I remember from my younger days - listen to the lyrics.
Aswad - Shine https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIw3BtSPHtI
The days are shorter, nights longer, it’s getting darker earlier and staying dark for longer. It’s the season of change, of letting go - just as the trees do. For me, it is also the time of the festival of lights. Diwali. A reminder of the triumph of good over evil.
The flame of the Diwa (candle) symbolises a variety of things including light over darkness, hope, the light of spiritual truth and knowledge of self-realization over ignorance, the burning of our negative tendencies including ego, greed, anger and deceit, how one candle (enlightened teacher) can light the spark of divinity in others.
This Mel Robbins video is a must watch in relation to the current world issues arising in the Gaza region. It is filled with virtues/values, with positivity, hope, what we can do - shine our light.
The Father and the Assassin - play at Nation Theatre
"The Father and the Assassin" - What Values would you die for?
Saw the play "The Father and the Assassin" recently at the National Theatre. Awesome. gripping, fast moving theatrical experience.
What values come to mind when you think of Gandhi or the Assassin?
Both were ready to die for their values.
Values are what matter most to us. They motivate and guide us. They are the passion in our hearts, the reason we do the things we do.
In a world that can feel increasingly divided, values help unite us. They are the glue holding together our communities and wider society. This year’s campaign theme is Values Bring Us Together.
What Values would you die for?
Join us World Values Day on Thurs 19th as we explore and focus on values at either of these times
Here are 2 videos that give an insight into values. The first for the theme of Values Bring Us Together the theme of World Values Day. The second by Dr Prabodh Misty that says Love and Truth are core values.
World Values Day 2023 : Values Bring Us Together https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTKtYaNLmJ8
The Power of Values - Dr Prabodh Mistry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyqbeDr_1cE
What do you want to become? Quotes like these shared in Daily Quotes WhatsApp group : https://chat.whatsapp.com/LIaT2YWByLlA03kmLbQxcc
The values/virtues that we cultivate and live by to be our best heroic self are in this image for the Arete book. These are the ones we will explore in the Happy Life Habits Book Club. See previous blog for more details on the Book Club.
For those who have joined the book club or ordered the book from Happy Life Habits watch this video on the Heroic 7 Objectives to get a sense of what the book is about and how we use it to be our Heroic Self. It has 451 micro chapters each having the potential to change your life. The idea behind 451 is that is the activation energy for heat or fire - it needs to be at 451 degrees to burn, any less it will not. Likewise water will not boil at 99 degrees Celsius, only when it reaches 100 does it boil. These 451 concepts activate our heroic potential.
OBJECTIVE I: KNOW THE ULTIMATE GAME
OBJECTIVE II: FORGE ANTIFRAGILE CONFIDENCE
OBJECTIVE III: OPTIMIZE YOUR BIG 3
OBJECTIVE IV: MAKE TODAY A MASTERPIECE
OBJECTIVE V: MASTER YOURSELF
OBJECTIVE VI: DOMINATE THE FUNDAMENTALS
OBJECTIVE VII: ACTIVATE YOUR SUPERPOWER
The below reshared from previous blog article.
“To Be or Not to Be? – That is a question or is it a choice?
Be a Caterpillar, Become a Butterfly
By a Wanna Be Butterfly Shaileen Shah 26 Sep 2017
Dedicated to all the teachers and inspirers past, present and future; who have guided us to make this world better by making ourselves better. Lessons, values, guidelines, way of living learnt through family, friends, films, books, seminars, workshops, talks, teachers, TED talks, newsletters, articles, blogs, conversations and ponderings.
Behind you lies the past
Before you awaits the future
Be present, be here, now
Be blissful, joyful, happy and peaceful
Be conscious, conscientious, insightful and natural
Be energetic, be moving, be moved and be still
Be a seeker, aspirer, Divine, graceful and of service
Be wholesome, authentic, an observer and a witness
Be grateful, humble, generous and giving
Be charitable, donor, giver and receiver
Be compassionate, kind, caring and loving
Be forgiving, honest, straightforward and content
Be awake, alive, awesome, extraordinary and wonderful
Be careful, respectful, carefree and tolerant
Be a follower, leader, trailblazer and a guide
Be on The Path, be off the beaten track
Be the light, beacon, role model and mentor
Be a teacher, student, learning, teachable and sharer
Be growing, nurturing, developing and blossoming
Be listening, consoling, be consultative, and approachable
Be flexible, adaptable, open and perspective shifting
Be encouraging, supportive, dependable and helpful
Be proactive, responsible, accountable and resourceful
Be cooperative, patient, synergistic and part of the solution
Be going the extra mile, adding value, not giving up and keep moving forward
Be positive, enthusiastic, insightful and optimistic
Be focussed, steadfast, persistent, grounded and centred
Be brave, courageous, bold and fearless
Be creative, imaginative, visionary, daring and clear
Be connected, a team player, performer and game changer
Be prepared, planned, ready, organised and spontaneous
Be engaging, gregarious, humorous and funny
Be hospitable, welcoming, warm and big hearted
Be trustworthy, trusting, loyal, complete and full of integrity
Be mindful, aware, attentive, tuned in and be there
Be inquisitive, curious, and adventurous
Be healthy, wealthy and wise
Be better today than you were yesterday
Believe in yourself, have faith and move mountains
Be reflective, contemplative, introspective and meditative
Be the change, be transformative, evolving and a catalyst
Be the best that you can be, a masterpiece, unique and special
Be yourself, realise your potential and be free
Be a caterpillar, become a butterfly
Too busy to just be?
Be reminded it is a choice to be or not to be
Just Be.
— Shaileen Shah - Happiness Coach
Take That - Shine https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JwC1Ctrj6Xk
Happy Life Habits rewires hearts & minds for better productivity, happiness and wellbeing in 10 minutes a day. We help you move out of the comfort zone and into the learning/growth zones. Our products and services help develop habits and continuous personal development.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list and join the Happy Life Habits Community WhatsApp Group
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
THE SPIRITUAL WARRIOR'S PRAYER
We are now in the final 3 months of the year. A good time to revisit your goals, aspirations and plans from the end of last year or start of this year and review where you are and what you want to do before the end of the year. Happy Life Habits has a few projects till the end of the year and into the new year that may interest you. These include:
HLH Thanks Giving Lunch
World Values Day
HLH Book Club for 2024
10 Week Training Course for the charity Mind In Enfield and Barnet
What I love about cultivating virtues, qualities and living values is that they help me grow, be aligned to who I am or want to be and bring my best self to situations. This is all part of inner work. No short term fix but long term transformation.
“THE SPIRITUAL WARRIOR’S PRAYER
I pray not to be protected from life’s battles,
But to have the courage to conquer them fearlessly.
I pray not to escape from my struggles,
But to learn the lessons the universe is trying to teach me.
I pray not to work for fame and recognition,
But to make it my mission to love and serve others in all that I do.
I pray not to measure my wealth and success by what I own,
But by how grateful and abundant I feel in my heart.
And I pray not for my circumstances to change so that I feel happy,
But to be a beacon of light in the world wherever God places me.”
Rest, Recovery, Rejuvenation, Review
We are now in the final 3 months of the year. A good time to revisit your goals, aspirations and plans from the end of last year or start of this year and review where you are and what you want to do before the end of the year. Happy Life Habits has a few projects till the end of the year and into the new year that may interest you.
Through learning and person experience about personal energy, circadian rhythms, ultradian rhythms and balance I have understood it is important to have time for rest, relaxation and recovery in order to let us keep performing well and do the things we want to and need to do on a continued basis. The Summer provided me with a few weeks to go on a family holiday. This we planned at the start of the year and looked forward to throughout the year. I was able to switch of from “work”. In order to do that I had to plan and action before and after the holiday. The break was a welcome respite to re-energise, connect, make memories with family and friends, have some wonderful experiences including bucket list item of hot air balloon ride, trek to waterfall and swim in it’s lagoon, be on safari from before sunrise till after sunset, see the Big 5 all in one day, have a bush breakfast and picnic lunch in the Masai Mara with zebras nearby, sunrises at the beach, full moon over the ocean and enjoy being in the moment.
Forgiveness and Gratitude
Just before going on holiday I had committed to lead a community project related to the Jain Festival of Forgiveness. This meant being very organised, planning and getting on with a lot of prep work in advance as the festival was just a few days after returning from holiday.
I really found it beneficial to be engrossed in the project focusing on Forgiveness, researching material, creating digital posters and a detailed plan for various days. The festival was for 8 days, however I was able to be with it for weeks, deepening my understanding of forgiveness. Here are 2 wonderful videos that I shared. One is on the relationship between Gratitude and Forgiveness and the other a powerful one on saying sorry while we can.
Gratitude and Forgiveness video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKDM5QH_wlo
If you need to say Sorry to Someone : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6QwXyE0J9c
What I love about cultivating virtues, qualities and living values is that they help me grow, be aligned to who I am or want to be and bring my best self to situations. This is all part of inner work. No short term fix but long term transformation.
Who are you? Who do you want to be?
World Values Day
Happy Life Habits is again supporting World Values Day on Thurs 19th October by running 2 sessions as part of the Valuesthon. From World Values Day website:
“World Values Day is an annual campaign to increase the awareness and practice of values around the world.
Values are what matter most to us. They motivate and guide us. They are the passion in our hearts, the reason we do the things we do.
In a world that can feel increasingly divided, values help unite us. They are the glue holding together our communities and wider society. This year’s campaign theme is Values Bring Us Together.
So on World Values Day let’s concentrate on what brings us together. Let’s put our values into action, reaching across the growing barriers that divide us to build stronger communities and a more united world.”
What values are important to you? Which would you die for?
Book at here for either of the 2 sessions.
Mind in Enfield and Barnet 10 week Happiness Course
We are delighted to have been asked by the charity Mind in Enfield and Barnet to design and deliver a 10 week training course on Happiness. We start sessions on the 6th of October.
Annual Thanks Giving Lunch
Having started last year we continue with our Thanks giving lunch at the end of November. An opportunity to connect with like minded people, have great conversations and gratitude related activities while sharing a lovely meal.
The waiting list for the 30 Day Gratitude and Journal Habit Immersion Training Course is open. We will discuss potential dates with those on the waiting list.
If interested join Thanksgiving Lunch group : https://chat.whatsapp.com/LeYGtRvATZUKZXTfPSr04h
Book Club 2024
The Happy Life Habits book club returns in 2024 with the Heroic book : Arete by Brian Johnson.
Arete means living virtues to excellence or being your best self, living to your potential.
The book ((releases at the end of the year) is a product from the Heroic Public Benefit Company through which I have done the Heroic Coach Life Coaching, become an Ambassador and been using the fantastic materials for over a 2 years in the Master Mind Group and coaching sessions.
It is the best personal development platform I have used for learning, resources and actually applying the learning to move from theory to practice to mastery. Combining ancient wisdom with modern science. Reducing the learning cycle and making change happen. Various Happy Life Habits Community members via the Master Mind Group have used Heroic materials and training.
If you wish to join the book club, have a hard back copy of the book (1000+ pages), want the Heroic App or know more about Heroic let me know.
The book club is a great way to have a disciplined way of working through a book, embedding the learning by sharing with others and being inspired to apply the learning. We will initially commit to 5 sessions for the new year.
For more info see https://www.heroic.us/optimize/the-book?fpr=happylifehabits
Follow this link to join HLH Book Club WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DsELdIg3tQyIB6GC0cTs6q
Happy Life Habits rewires hearts & minds for better productivity, happiness and wellbeing in 10 minutes a day. We help you move out of the comfort zone and into the learning/growth zones. Our products and services help develop habits and continuous personal development.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list and join the Happy Life Habits Community WhatsApp Group
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 : 15th - 21st May: Theme Anxiety
Happy Life Habits (HLH) is again supporting Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) and the theme of Anxiety.
Mental Health and anxiety is about what is going on inside with our thoughts and feelings. We all feel moments of anxiety due to various things which can include health, work, loved ones, money worries, exams and life/world events.
You are not alone in feeling anxiety. It has been show to increase in recent years.
According to a survey by the Mental Health Foundation 25% (1 in 4) adults reported feeling anxious.
It's how we cope with it that matters. HLH has a dedicated Mental Health WhatsApp group as part of its Community. During MHAW we will share daily tips, quotes, resources to cope with anxiety.
Join HLH Mental Health WhatsApp Group https://chat.whatsapp.com/D6ILNpZcxQ1KT8OAlwZIma
Happy Life Habits (HLH) is again supporting Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) and the theme of Anxiety.
Mental Health and anxiety is about what is going on inside with our thoughts and feelings. We all feel moments of anxiety due to various things which can include health, work, loved ones, money worries, exams and life/world events.
You are not alone in feeling anxiety. It has been show to increase in recent years.
According to a survey by the Mental Health Foundation 25% (1 in 4) adults reported feeling anxious.
It's how we cope with it that matters. HLH has a dedicated Mental Health WhatsApp group as part of its Community. During MHAW we will share daily tips, quotes, resources to cope with anxiety.
On Thurs 18th May we have these free events:
(1) Gratitude for Wellbeing Workshop for Mind in Enfield & Barnet
(2) MasterClass on Coping with Anxiety 8-9pm ( Zoom details will be shared in WhatsApp group)
Join the Happy Life Habits dedicated Mental Health WhatsApp group
I just couldn't wait to share this. Yesterday I spent a few hours curating additional resources for Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) starting next week which included watching more than a dozen TED Talks.
I've got some fantastic material including an anxiety test, TED Talks, Quotes, Articles and the HLH MHAW Video series.
I will start sharing this today on the HLH Mental Health WhatsApp group today as it spans more than a week's worth of content.
During MHAW there will be about 3 or 4 messages throughout the day to share the content: Video, Quote, Article, TED Talk.
I watched all the short HLH MHAW Video series which I had shot during the pandemic. The material in my biased opinion is still awesome.
Here is the intro video - please watch, the title page has the topics.
Each video is short, content rich, has my personal experience, science/facts, an inspiring quote and most importantly an action for you to do each day.
Only in taking action will we make a difference and change. Information is information. When applied, actioned and lived it becomes experience and wisdom.
Here is one of the first TED Talks I curated a few weeks back, it is packed with great information and also has 2 practices you can immediately apply to help with anxiety. Reassuringly the 2 practices are shared in the mini video series.
Here is link to Anxiety Test
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/quizzes/results/stress_and_anxiety
How did you score?
What an amazing Coronation concert. Absolutely loved watching it on TV. Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That rocked it.
Do you think they were anxious? If so, they certainly did not show it. They owned the stage, the moment and engaged and connected with the audience both at Windsor Castle and those watching at home.
Watch the video with Katy Perry and Take That videos - they exudes calm confidence and you can see the joy in their performances.
How did they cope with any anxiety?
I believe they all have learnt to develop calm confidence, an antidote to anxiety.
What makes you feel anxiety?
We all feel moments of anxiety due to various things which can include health, work, loved ones, money worries, exams and life/world events.
How do you cope with Anxiety?
Calm Confidence is something we will share at the Free Happy Life Habits Anxiety Master Class in support of Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW). We will also share :
What is Anxiety?
Symptoms
Ways to Cope
Do actionable activities
Q&A
The zoom link will be shared in the HLH Mental Health WhatsApp Group.
Starting soon and also during MHAW we will share daily resources including videos, quotes, articles, actions etc. in the Mental Health Group.
Please share with those who you think may benefit from this.
I am hoping to write an article with various resources and additional material after MHAW.
Happy Life Habits rewires hearts & minds for better productivity, happiness and wellbeing in 10 minutes a day. We help you move out of the comfort zone and into the learning/growth zones. Our products and services help develop habits and continuous personal development.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
What do you Value?
What do you value?
I am not talking about material/physical things but a deeper sense of what are your inner values that matter you most?
Each year organised by World Values Day there is a day dedicated for us to remember, reflect and consider values and their impact for us as individuals, schools, community groups, organisations, nations and as the human race.
World Values Day 2022 is on Thursday 20th October and has a variety of activities and events around the world for us to get involved with on the theme if community.
#WorldValuesDay2022
What do you value?
I am not talking about material/physical things but a deeper sense of what are your inner values that matter you most?
Each year organised by World Values Day there is a day dedicated for us to remember, reflect and consider values and their impact for us as individuals, schools, community groups, organisations, nations and as the human race.
World Values Day 2022 is on Thursday 20th October and has a variety of activities and events around the world for us to get involved with on the theme if community.
From World Values Day website:
"World Values Day is an annual campaign to increase the awareness and practice of values around the world.
Values are what matter most to us. They motivate and guide us. They are the passion in our hearts, the reason we do the things we do.
In a world that can feel increasingly divided, values help unite us. They are the glue holding together our communities and wider society.
Our theme this year is Values for Community. So on World Values Day let’s put our values into action, reaching across the growing barriers that divide us to build stronger communities and a more united world."
Happy Life Habits is supporting World Values Day.
Find out more about various activities and events plus get involved at https://www.worldvaluesday.com/valuesthon-2022/
#WorldValuesDay2022
Happy Life Habits Values
From when Happy Life Habits was started in 2018 we gave a lot of thought from the outset on why we exist, what our mission is and the values we want to live and work by. This you can read more about at Why, What and How. Here is a snippet.
WHAT WE DO & HOW WE DO IT
We positively impact happiness & well-being levels. Sharing and developing Habits to live a Happy Life.
This is so individuals, groups, communities & companies can engage in a happier, kinder, effective and meaningful way with the challenges that life unfolds. We combine Personal Development with The Science of Happiness & Spirituality to create and share uniquely creative, informative and valuable material through talks, workshops and coaching.
HAPPY LIFE HABITS = PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT + THE SCIENCE OF HAPPINESS + SPIRITUALITY
We share knowledge, skills, tools and experience to inspire, encourage, shift mindset to develop and integrate positive, empowering habits into our lives. We do this with a focus on core values at the heart of everything we think, say and do. We are a business for good.
OUR VALUES
Gratitude
Integrity
Kindness
Innovation
Focus
Effectiveness
Service
Making a Difference
Learning
Growth
Outstanding Value
Win-Win Relationship
In this blog article TO BE OR NOT TO BE? – THAT IS THE QUESTION OR IS IT A CHOICE? BE A CATERPILLAR, BECOME A BUTTERFLY I shared a poem that captures values, virtues and affirmations. Here it is (Taking enquiries for a beautiful printed poster version).
“To Be or Not to Be? – That is a question or is it a choice?
Be a Caterpillar, Become a Butterfly
By a Wanna Be Butterfly Shaileen Shah 26 Sep 2017
Dedicated to all the teachers and inspirers past, present and future; who have guided us to make this world better by making ourselves better. Lessons, values, guidelines, way of living learnt through family, friends, films, books, seminars, workshops, talks, teachers, TED talks, newsletters, articles, blogs, conversations and ponderings.
Behind you lies the past
Before you awaits the future
Be present, be here, now
Be blissful, joyful, happy and peaceful
Be conscious, conscientious, insightful and natural
Be energetic, be moving, be moved and be still
Be a seeker, aspirer, Divine, graceful and of service
Be wholesome, authentic, an observer and a witness
Be grateful, humble, generous and giving
Be charitable, donor, giver and receiver
Be compassionate, kind, caring and loving
Be forgiving, honest, straightforward and content
Be awake, alive, awesome, extraordinary and wonderful
Be careful, respectful, carefree and tolerant
Be a follower, leader, trailblazer and a guide
Be on The Path, be off the beaten track
Be the light, beacon, role model and mentor
Be a teacher, student, learning, teachable and sharer
Be growing, nurturing, developing and blossoming
Be listening, consoling, be consultative, and approachable
Be flexible, adaptable, open and perspective shifting
Be encouraging, supportive, dependable and helpful
Be proactive, responsible, accountable and resourceful
Be cooperative, patient, synergistic and part of the solution
Be going the extra mile, adding value, not giving up and keep moving forward
Be positive, enthusiastic, insightful and optimistic
Be focussed, steadfast, persistent, grounded and centred
Be brave, courageous, bold and fearless
Be creative, imaginative, visionary, daring and clear
Be connected, a team player, performer and game changer
Be prepared, planned, ready, organised and spontaneous
Be engaging, gregarious, humorous and funny
Be hospitable, welcoming, warm and big hearted
Be trustworthy, trusting, loyal, complete and full of integrity
Be mindful, aware, attentive, tuned in and be there
Be inquisitive, curious, and adventurous
Be healthy, wealthy and wise
Be better today than you were yesterday
Believe in yourself, have faith and move mountains
Be reflective, contemplative, introspective and meditative
Be the change, be transformative, evolving and a catalyst
Be the best that you can be, a masterpiece, unique and special
Be yourself, realise your potential and be free
Be a caterpillar, become a butterfly
Too busy to just be?
Be reminded it is a choice to be or not to be
Just Be.”
What are you values?
Happy Life Habits rewires hearts & minds for better productivity, happiness and wellbeing in 10 minutes a day. We help you move out of the comfort zone and into the learning/growth zones. Our products and services help develop habits and continuous personal development.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) 2022 Theme Loneliness
Resources to support Mental Health Awareness Week : Theme Loneliness include articles, videos and events.
Prassannachandra story from Jain Faith
Mental Health can manifest as physical issues
Mental Health Awareness Week 9 -15 May 2022 : Theme Loneliness
Articles, videos, events, resources
Mental Health can and will impact everyone of us in some way : directly or indirectly. The better aware we are the better we can respond. The below video is a Jain faith story being used here to highlight how a person may appear externally does not reflect what is going on internally. The image below it (shared to me by Nisanka Wickramarachchi) shares some of the physical issues that manifest due to mental health. At Happy Life Habits we share that health, happiness and the human being are based on 4 main inter- related dimensions: Physical, Mental, Social/Emotional and Spiritual. An impact in any one has a knock on effect on others. A 4 are very much connected.
Mental Health can manifest as physical issues (image by Mellow Doodles).
Mental Health Awareness Week 9 -15 May 2022 : Theme Loneliness
Happy Life Habits (HLH) is again supporting Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW). This year The Mental Health Foundation has chosen the theme of Loneliness. This theme is a very important to me personally, I’ve written about it many a time and we strive to create Happy Life Habit events to have a sense of community, connection, interaction and belonging to help avoid loneliness.
Am I alone in thinking; actually; in believing that loneliness need not exist. We have the power in our choices of thought, speech, action to increase a bit more kindness, compassion, love, forgiveness, friendliness, mindfulness and gratitude in our interactions; to mean no one need ever feel alone. We are social animals and expressing these virtues lead to pro-social behaviours; a sense of connection and community.
- Shaileen Shah
This article from the Mental Health Foundation explains why the theme of loneliness. It shares:
Loneliness is the feeling we experience when there is a mismatch between the social connections we have and those that we need or want.
It found that the warmth of our relationships throughout life had the greatest impact on our life satisfaction and health.
During the lockdowns, we found that loneliness was almost 3 times that of pre-pandemic levels.
The Paradox is you are not alone in feeling alone.
When have you experienced Mental Health Challenges or loneliness? How did you feel? What did you do? What Helped?
I've felt lonely or experience Mental Health challenges:
1st week and 1st year at University - had no immediate like minded friend circle.
During the Summer when finishing an MSc. - Most of the other students had left the city.
In my first job during my twenties for a US consultancy when I was posted in the US for a few weeks/months - first and only birthday and Diwali on my own without family or friends.
When on honeymoon in the Maldives and better half needed an emergency operation. In a time when mobiles did not readily exist, international calls were expensive; we needed to deal with this on our own.
At work when there was after work drinks at pub, being a non-drinker and introverted I felt out of place.
When I suffered work related stress - felt could not talk to anyone.
At the start of the pandemic - see Together in Isolation article.
I felt disconnected, on my own, low, no drive.
Here are some snippets and links (click title) to Happy Life Habits articles on Mental Health, Connection, Loneliness etc. Plus one from The Charity Mind.
Together in Isolation
The communities that I am a part of; being for me a source of faith, learning, growth, health, service and social activity were all stopping events and activity - badminton clubs, youth clubs, Jain Faith School, Jain Faith Convention, meditation circles, etc. This was impacting my sense of connection, community, clarity and meaning.
— Shaileen Shah - Together in Isolation
The Ups and Downs of a Happiness Coach
During this pandemic I have been craving for connection both people to people and grateful for the technology connections, I guess with the previous articles on Happier Relationships and what I have learnt over time I understand the importance of this to our happiness, well being and mental health. I have also been through the turbulence of insecurities and validation issues.
Houston we have a problem : we’ve lost connection
Imagine if I was not in good Mental Health and maybe even Suicidal what could have happened if that one email did not come through? I know from website statistics that more than one person had read the article. The picture on the article of me sitting on a chair , on a cliff edge looking out and contemplating could have turned into standing up and taking a few steps to the cliff edge and then a few more steps…
What do we all have in common? Community
Happy Life Habits (HLH) has been working hard to serve and cultivate a community of people who want to positively impact happiness and well-being levels. When we are happy, kind, optimistic or hopeful by contagion the people around us also feel that. An act of kindness done to one person ripples out to 6 others and then with each of those 6 rippling to another 6 for three further levels.
No man is an island
They remind us we do not achieve things on our own (poem), that what/who we are surrounded by (our community, environment) has an impact on us (corn story) and we have an impact on others; and finally that real wealth, happiness and life satisfaction is in being kind, giving and making a difference to others.
The Charity Mind Resources on Loneliness
Explains loneliness, including the causes of loneliness and how it relates to mental health problems. Gives practical tips to help manage feelings of loneliness, and other places you can go for support.
Feeling lonely isn't in itself a mental health problem, but the two are strongly linked. Having a mental health problem can increase your chance of feeling lonely.
Here are a set of curated videos on the theme of loneliness and how to deal with it.
We are partnering with some groups, organisations and individuals to support in terms of awareness, community and connection. These are : Mind In Enfield and Barnet, Young Jains, Oshwal Connect, Manish Gohel (Asian Parents Club, Business Club) , Reshna Shah, Aarti O Gosrani (Oshwal Connect), Sonal Dave, Priya Shah, Hansa Pankhania and Martine Drake (Mind In Enfield and Barnet) . We ae also very grateful to Shandip Shah from Balance Consultancy in providing sponsorship for this project.
https://www.oshwalconnect.org/
Daily Evening sessions (will be recorded) with guest speakers followed by activity to foster connection & community.
Sessions on
Panel discussion on Community & Connection
The charity Mind in Enfield & Barnet sharing on Mental Health and Loneliness
How to overcome Loneliness
Stress & Anxiety in the Workplace
Suicide Prevention
See the posters below or events page for more details.
Day 1
Recordings of sessions
Here are a set of short, useful videos that Happy Life Habits has created on Mental Health drawing on my own experience of Mental Health. They share some stories, concepts, quotes and actions for you to take.
Introduction
What is Mental Health?
Impact of Stress
Thinking
Worry
Loneliness & Depression
Happy Life Habits
These all help our well being
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
What are your strengths and why be aware of them?
What are your strengths and why be aware of them?
What am I doing here?
I hated every minute, every moment.
Patience is a virtue…
Marketing is about Values says Steve Jobs
Last 100 Days or so plus next 100 Days or so
Mental Health Awareness Week 9 -15 May 2022 : Theme Loneliness
Pay it Forward Fund
What am I doing here?
I hated every minute, every moment. “What am I doing here?” I asked myself many a time. I was unhappy, frustrated, annoyed and unproductive. Losing company loyalty fast. Working late again on a task which I was ill equipped for. Not having the correct skills, knowledge or support. One that was not really part of my role or responsibilities. I was caught in the cross fire of stupid office politics between 2 departments; my department : Technology and the other department : Business Change. I was a technical lead on the project, that meant I’m a coder, designer, integrator not a business specification writer. However here I was sat at a desk in business change trying to write business specifications for the first and last time in my life. Hating every minute, every moment. Some additional back story context, the bank I had worked for had been bailed out in the financial crisis of 2008, yes that bank. It had spent silly amounts on a takeover of another bank, now I was in a changing culture, uncertain future, with managers who did not really know me, on a project from hell.
This was because I was not working from my strengths. In fact far from it.
These days when I work from my strengths I am in good flow mode, creative, productive, engaging, happy, on fire and on purpose. For an example of that, have a listen to recent podcasts/talks. Most recent is the Woo Woo Wednesday Show Podcast where we covered a lot of ground from gratitude, grief, science of happiness to Tony Robbins Firewalk Seminar and Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. I was asked to share an overview of the 7 Habits - this was not pre-planned, it was spontaneous. Fortunately the habits have been a big part of my development so I was able to share my view and insights enthusiastically. I loved every minute, every moment. I was feeling energetic, connected and congruent. I was living from my strengths.
What are your strengths and why be aware of them?
Character Strengths are the positive parts of your personality that impact how you think, feel and behave.
Knowing and applying your highest character strengths is the key to you being your best self.
Character strengths are the core personality traits that define your unique identity and make you feel authentic, alive and engaged in life.
Research shows learning about your strengths and how to express them can make you happier, less stressed, more productive at work and better connected to others.
From VIA Institute on Character
As I continue learning and exploring I am regularly reminded of virtues and character strengths. These have been a core part of my spiritual development, personal development, happiness & wellbeing. In fact the initial version of the Gratitude Workshop was born more that 7 years ago at a Young Jains Virtue Lab where we explored and practiced virtues such as gratitude, forgiveness, humility and compassion. There are 4 foundation qualities recommended to nurture and cultivate for our spiritual journey. I’ll share two of them here, The first being ‘Maitri’ , universal friendliness, unconditional love and I akin it to the Buddhist concept of Metta, Loving Kindness. More on this in next blog dedicated to Mental Health Awareness Week which is on the theme of Loneliness. Another is ‘Pramod’ , recognising and appreciating the good qualities in others. This for me is an expression of gratitude and we fully experience this in the 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course when we do a powerful Gratitude Letter exercise.
Current coaching program and courses I have done re-iterate knowing our core virtues /strengths and living/expressing them.
I have been taking the VIA (Virtues In Action) character strengths test for the last few years. I encouraged our Master Mind Group members take the test in 2021 and we learnt more about them in the course on Happiness and Health we were doing together. Interestingly MY TOP 5 (from the list of 24 split over 6 categories : WISDOM,COURAGE, HUMANITY, JUSTICE, TEMPERANCE, TRANSCENDENCE) have been fairly consistent last few years though order does change. Here they are for March 2022.
This is great as it fits hand in glove with what Happy Life Habits is about:
HAPPY LIFE HABITS = PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT + THE SCIENCE OF HAPPINESS + SPIRITUALITY
The 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course expresses all 5 virtues. The Master Mind Group has learning as a core component. The community talks and free events / talks are acts of kindness and spirituality.
If you would like to find out your character strengths then you can take the free short survey by clicking here VIA Character Strengths Survey or finding the survey at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Patience is a virtue…
I have enjoyed the very visual posts shared by Janis Ozolins recently on LinkedIn.
This one, in relation to patience, struck a chord. I am all of the roles shown in the image. Being a parent definitely needs patience.
I suggested another one right next to parent and of same height or taller is "carer for your parent".
I suggested another one right next to parent and of same height or taller is "carer for your parent".
The last 15 months or so I have needed to cultivate my patience as I become one of the main carers for my elder mum (80+) who was widowed 15 months ago and suffers from both Parkinson's and Dementia.
Sometimes I have lost my patience but the lesson and opportunity comes again and again.
As they say Patience is a virtue and I'm all for developing and expressing virtues.
Marketing is about Values says Steve Jobs
A brilliant example of focus on strengths, virtues/values as well as conviction to a vision and sense of purpose. Watch the whole 15 minute video introducing the Think Different campaign for Apple - it is a master class, so inspiring and in hindsight what awesome foresight.
Last 100 Days or so plus next 100 Days or so
Here are some of the activities and events we have delivered and will be delivering. They include the Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course, Master Mind Group sessions, Gratitude & Journal Workshop for Mind In Enfield and Barnet, Kids Happiness Booster sessions, Happier Relationships, Positive Grief talk for the Lohana Community of North London, Stress & Mental Health at Better plus just last month the Happiness Festival with over a dozen speakers to celebrate International Day of Happiness.
Mental Health Awareness Week 9 -15 May 2022 : Theme Loneliness
Happy Life Habits (HLH) is again supporting Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW). This year the theme is Loneliness.
The Paradox is you are not alone in feeling alone.
When have you experienced Mental Health Challenges or loneliness? How did you feel? What did you do? What Helped?
I've felt lonely or experience Mental Health challenges (stress) :
1st week and 1st year at University
During the Summer when finishing an MSc.
In my first job during my twenties for a US consultancy when I was posted in the US for a few weeks/months - first and only birthday and Diwali on my own without family or friends
When on honeymoon in the Maldives and better half needed an emergency operation
At work when there was after work drinks at pub, being a non-drinker and introverted I felt out of place.
When I suffered work related stress
At the start of the pandemic
I felt disconnected, on my own, low, no drive.
Anyone else experienced Mental Health Challenges or loneliness and are happy to share?
_____________________________________________________
We are partnering with some groups, organisations and individuals to support in terms of awareness, community and connection. These are : Mind In Enfield and Barnet, Young Jains, Oshwal Connect, Manish Gohel (Asian Parents Club, Business Club) , Reshna Shah, Aarti O Gosrani (Oshwal Connect), Sonal Dave, Priya Shah, Hansa Pankhania and Martine Drake (Mind In Enfield and Barnet) . We ae also very grateful to Shandip Shah from Balance Consultancy in providing sponsorship for this project.
Daily Evening sessions (will be recorded) with guest speakers followed by activity to foster connection & community.
Sessions on
Panel discussion on Community & Connection
The charity Mind in Enfield & Barnet sharing on Mental Health and Loneliness
How to overcome Loneliness
Stress & Anxiety in the Workplace
Suicide Prevention
See the posters below or events page for more details.
The next blog will be fully related to Mental Health Awareness week and the theme of loneliness. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter to get it in you inbox and not miss it.
Register Now for life changing, happiness inducing events
Register Now for life changing, happiness inducing events
What an opportunity and uplifting experience. Thank you Shaileen Shah, at ‘happy life habits’.
I truly appreciate every session (and all the encouragement and support, connection and sharing in the group, and between sessions), and your incredible commitment to making it such a enriching experience.
There are so many benefits from this experience. It has opened my eyes and shown me how much more intentionally and enjoyably I can be living. I highly recommend engaging with Happy life habits.
Mary Thomson. NHS Public Governor, nurse and educator._________________________________________________________________________
Joining the Mastermind Group enabled me to be among like-minded people who all wanted to learn new things and improve their lifestyle. I enjoyed the discussions which were inspiring and uplifting. I found everyone in the group non-judgemental and genuinely interested in helping and supporting each other. Personally, they helped me resolve a difficult challenge by suggesting a few different solutions.Pragna, Carer
_______________________________________________________________________
In 2021 I joined the Mastermind group where it enhanced my own personal development and learnt some techniques to optimise my learning and energy which were put in practise as well. We also had to choose a book to the relevant topic and discuss what we grasped from it.
It's all about exchanging themes and ideas to suit your own pace and being with like minded people who want to make a change for themselves in a positive way!
This has definitely made me utilise my time in an efficient way and see what my priorities are and bringing about awareness.
Thank you Shaileen for bringing colours to all the members and touching the lives of many friends!
See the change in you as you bring happiness to yourself and others!
Reshna Shah
Finance Manager
Pay it Forward Fund
A sponsored or part sponsored space on the excellent, life changing, mind shifting 30 Day Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course (worth £135+).
As a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer I have experienced Mental Health challenges such as stress, grief, loneliness, etc. One of the practices that science says and certainly has been my experience for better mental and emotional wellbeing is the practice of gratitude and journaling.
That is why during the start of the pandemic in 2020 we launched the 30 Day training course that has positively impacted many. There are many benefits that I can't list here but refer you to the dedicated web page for the course.
Through some generous seed funding from my old badminton club, Sonal Dave and others who see the benefits of the work we do have a small Pay It Forward fund.
If you or you know someone who may benefit from the Training Course but at the current moment are not able to due to financial reasons then the Pay It Forward Fund can help. As the name says Pay It Forward is someone having paid before to allow this opportunity. If you do take up the Pay It Forward funding we hope that when circumstances change for you that you are able to help Pay It Forward for someone else.
On registration form in the referral code put "Pay It Forward Fund" if you want to request use of the fund.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
International Day of Happiness Virtual Festival hosted by Happy Life Habits
I don’t know about you but I’ve been feeling a bit down, some grief and just unmotivated recently - not my normal self. I think it is a combination of the World news and happenings in Ukraine, personal and work challenges, the mid-life crisis I’ve been in for the last 10 years! and life in general. I am digging deep into my habits of gratitude, journaling, mindfulness, kindness and learning.
I don’t know about you but I’ve been feeling a bit down, some grief and just unmotivated recently - not my normal self. I think it is a combination of the World news and happenings in Ukraine, personal and work challenges, the mid-life crisis I’ve been in for the last 10 years! and life in general. I am digging deep into my habits of gratitude, journaling, mindfulness, kindness and learning.
At Happier Relationships workshop I shared how Connection is so important to our happiness and wellbeing. Study after study has shown this as has my own experience. That is part of why as Happy Life Habits we do workshops and sessions virtual but live so as to foster that sense of connection.
I have been invited by the Lohana Community of North London to share the Positive Grief talk next week which I am looking forward to. The sense of grief is part of what I am feeling due to the Ukraine war and hearing the stories of the changes and challenges the people are facing.
Also next week I am talking part in a Facebook live with Asian Parents Club where I have been given the opportunity to by one of the coaches to share and support in that group.
Join us for both of those events and also I invite you to the Happiness Festival we are hosting on the 19th March. It’s going to be very special and different and much needed at this time.
The UN's International Day of Happiness aims to make people around the world realize the importance of happiness within their lives.
Imagine a Happiness Festival a bit like the Ideal Home exhibition or trade show with different themed zones, show stages with scheduled events and individual stalls.
Multiple sessions running at the same time
Attendees free to move around
Various Zones such as Laughter, Happiness etc
We have a great line up of speakers and workshops for all including kids.
All this available globally and virtually. We are using the Wonder platform which is a great, easy to use platform from laptop/pc (does not work on tablet or phone). Fostering the different stalls, stages and activities. On the platform you will be able to see the running agenda of what is happening at what time and where. With a simply drag of you mouse you can go into your chosen activity/space.
To book FREE ticket and find out more visit the Festival page.
Happy Life Habits continues to run Gratitude & Journaling workshops and training, Positive Grief talks, Mental Health Awareness, etc. See the events page for more details.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
Sometimes it’s just Mission Impossible
Sometimes it feels like Mission Impossible with the projects and activities we have ongoing with Happy Life Habits at the moment (most are this month!) however the Life in 3 Acts sums up Happy Life Habits’ approach. This is what we have been up to or have on the near horizon.
The Self Care Infographic has been well received and shared. It has help my business clients connect with their clients including past clients.
Kids Happiness Boosters for Half Term (completely new)
Gratitude Journaling for Happiness Workshop with Mind In Enfield and Barnet
30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course
Happier Relationships with Happy Life Habits
HLH International Day of Happiness Global Virtual Festival
Master Mind Group focus on Learning
Initial discussions regarding HLH taking part in podcasts or speaking at community groups and companies
ONE FOR THE KIDS, ONE FOR THE ADULTS (FREE) AND ONE FOR EVERYONE (FREE)
Happy Life Habits have got
(1) Half term Happiness Booster sessions arranged for kids
(2) Happier Relationships workshop for adults - Free tickets available now (limited number)
(3) Global Virtual Happiness Festival - for all - pre-launch early bird free tickets available now (limited numbers).
We have session suggestions from authors, coaches, trainers, speakers, comedians, chocolatiers etc that are being reviewed such as:
Nothing Links Like Laughter
Healthy Lifestyle = Happy You
Chocolate for a happier life
Mindfulness / Meditation for younger children
Center of Happiness
Like a Comedian
What's self care to you?
How to be kind to yourself when the world hasn’t been kind to you
If you would like to share/present/run session or have stall at the Festival there are currently opportunities to get involved
Sometimes it feels like Mission Impossible with the projects and activities we have ongoing with Happy Life Habits at the moment (most are this month!) however the Life in 3 Acts sums up Happy Life Habits’ approach. This is what we have been up to or have on the near horizon.
The Self Care Infographic has been well received and shared. It has help my business clients connect with their clients including past clients.
Kids Happiness Boosters for Half Term (completely new)
Gratitude Journaling for Happiness Workshop with Mind In Enfield and Barnet
30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course
Happier Relationships with Happy Life Habits
HLH International Day of Happiness Global Virtual Festival
Master Mind Group focus on Learning
Initial discussions regarding HLH taking part in podcasts or speaking at community groups and companies
All of these involve a fair bit such as:
What we are doing and Why
Research
Posters /Graphics for the event
Setting up/sharing HLH Activities on Eventbrite, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, HLH Website, WhatsApp, Blog, Emails
Booking forms
Conversations with various parties and collaborators
Learning various platforms
I’m loving it, learning, growing, connecting, collaborating and impacting.
Sometimes it’s going to have to be Mission Impossible
Image from https://www.imdb.com/
I was only going to watch 10 minutes of the film Mission Impossible, again, having watched it many times before during the last 25+ years, it still entertains.
An hour and half later the film ended and I felt good. I felt good because the film has fast moving action, gadgets, plot twists, cool music score all keeping the brain engaged as the good guy wins.
Tom Cruise’s character Ethan Hunt shows resilience, confidence, resourcefulness, creativity and attention to detail to name but a few.
It has some iconic memorable scenes like Tom Cruise’s character catching the bead of sweat from falling onto the floor which has sensors to trigger alarm if pressure changes, the accessing of the CIA computer while dangling from the ceiling and the helicopter tied to the Eurostar train as it goes into a tunnel.
Which film(s) do you watch for 10 minutes again then end up enjoying the whole film again and what do you like about the film?
Kids Happiness Boosters for Half Term (completely new)
I really believe if we can introduce positive habits to children early on then they can develop and use coping tools for the rest of their life.
To find out more or book click here
Gratitude
We continue sharing and making a difference with the Gratitude Journaling for Happiness Workshop with Mind In Enfield and Barnet.
The January 30 Day Gratitude and Journal Habit Immersion Training course has just ended. Lovely sharing and feedback during the month and on the celebration call as trainees shared their experience and transforming shifts. Each iteration of the course has unique elements and new ideas introduced.
Our guest speakers those who had done the course previously shared the impact of the course on them. Terence shared how it helps him cope with depression with medication and the positive impact it has given him. The course brings so many positive elements.
Next course dates are 1st May.
Here is a guest speaker testimonial. Next blog will have another one.
Priti Shah - Debt Solution Specialist : Regional Director at Lightside Financial
Build Resilience and Mental Strength for the future
Resources that will help now, every single day and for the future for the rest of life
Benefiting from: Positive intentions
Setting the day up well
Think in detailed/ granular way
Feel happier from the morning
Discipline and Habit to do every day
Happier Relationships
Good healthy relationships are shown to lead to long, happy, healthy lives. February being the month of Valentines we have an event on Happier Relationships
It is for singles, couples, friend, groups, You!
It will be a mix of sharing some information, interactive discussions and fun games on the exciting Wonder platform. Come alone or bring a friend or few.
Master Mind Group (MMG)
The MMG had a bonus kick off meeting in January where we shared the focus for February meeting to be on Learning. Using our chosen platform at self pace we are learning how to learn effectively When we meet in the month each member will share key ideas from a book they have chosen on the platform as well as how they are applying the ideas. Examples of the books are: Limitless, Make it Stick, How to be a straight A student, Mindset, Flow, Deep Work etc.
I’m very much enjoying the learning process and look forward to enhancing my knowledge with the group sharing.
Happy Life Habits International Day of Happiness Global Virtual Festival 19th March
Imagine a Happiness Festival a bit like the Ideal Home exhibition with different themed zones, show stages with scheduled events and individual stalls. Multiple sessions running at the same time. Various Zones such as Laughter, Relaxation, Movement, Creativeness, Science of Happiness
The pre-launch free tickets are available for booking now.
For the last few years Happy Life Habits (HLH) has hosted and served during the UN’s International Day of Happiness (IDOH): 20th March and Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) :May.
In 2022 we are continuing this with an International Day of Happiness Virtual Festival on Sat 19th March 2022 (1 day before IDOH)
ARE YOU INTERESTED TO BE A BIGGER PART OF IT?
THE OPTIONS ARE:
Share a session for 15mins - 60mins
Share a session and also have a stall
Be a sponsor
For further info on any of these.
We have session suggestions from authors, coaches, trainers, speakers, comedians, chocolatiers etc that are being reviewed such as:
Nothing Links Like Laughter
Interactive chat about what makes us laugh. The what, why, and how to make it happen. Appreciating how it positively affects every aspect of communication, whether spoken or written, whether for pleasure or business.
Healthy Lifestyle = Happy You
We often think that when we'll be successful, fit and settled, we'll be happy. In this session we'll discuss the steps everyone can take to become more confident, energised and healthy and just be the best and happiest version of yourself. You'll get clear and easy actions that you can implement straight away and will give you a sense of achievement to help you take back control of what you think, eat and do so as to releasing the real you!
Chocolate for a happier life
An introduction to chocolate appreciation
From an OBE awarded chocolatier with over 30 years experience
Mindfulness / Meditation for younger children
Mindfulness activities and book reading
Center of Happiness
You can spend your whole life searching for happiness. Once you discover the center of happiness, your search ends and you truly start living a happy life. Learn what is that center and how can you connect with it.
Like a Comedian
There is a lot we can all learn from the approach we comedians take to our work. I'm not just talking about laughter, although that is invaluable. Our approach to creativity, our willingness to try out imperfect material in public, our connection with our audience. I will give people some tools to help free them from some of the stresses they encounter, especially in their working lives, based on the comedian's craft.
What's self care to you?
Self Care session - to provide an overview of what self care can be for you. An opportunity to consider the eight components of self care
How to be kind to yourself when the world hasn’t been kind to you
People will take away simple tools to help themselves when they feel negative emotions. These are simple and powerful and gives an immediate release whilst building our ability to accept our emotions.
These are some, others include book readings for children, financial wellbeing for kids, breathwork etc.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Facebook Group, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube etc links can be found at https://linktr.ee/HappyLifeHabits
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
Extra Time - How will you spend it
What would you do if you had 60 mins more in the day?
More time on health, exercise, meditation, being with friends/family, sleeping, Netflix, working, learning?
Take a moment to really think.
What would you do if you had 60 mins more in the day?
More time on health, exercise, meditation, being with friends/family, sleeping, Netflix, working, learning?
Take a moment to really think.
Magic Wand waving...
Well those in the regions where clocks go back on Sunday you have the opportunity to use that "extra" hour.
I'll use it to learn and plan, what about you?
You could watch the Positive Grief recording, register for a HLH Course, watch Inspiration Point Podcast, do a google review or get a regular dose of positivity, inspiration, happiness with the regular sharing in the Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Positive Grief Action and Help Requested - takes 5 mins
Positive Grief - it's now been 4 weeks or almost 1 calendar month since I did this talk (recording plus additional resources can be accessed from here).
I'd really appreciate if you could take a few mins to fill out this short questionnaire so that:
(1) Get feedback on talk / recording
(2) Get input to develop a Free Positive Grief Support Group service
The questionnaire can be kept anonymous and you have the option to leave contact details if you want to be part of the Support Group etc.
Here is link for the questionnaire : https://forms.gle/toR4Kbe1fAyCRPpbA
Takes 5 mins
Thanks in advance
Seen shared on Facebook
Stress
Stress is natural, it is our body and brain's way of protecting us from danger and threat - to save our life. I have often shared that stress itself is not the problem but how long we hold onto the stress is the problem. We need to learn to put the stress down before we pick up again.
This is where self care practices such as mindfulness, gratitude and journaling help.
These have helped me deal with the stresses of life and continue to do so. Don't wait to be chronically stressed to react to find a solution/remedy. Act proactively now and respond by investing in you self care and coping mechanisms to build your resilience.
Invest in the 30 Day Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course - 2022 Dates have been amended.
Scentered : Product Review
I was aware that smells can evoke emotions and feelings. We can all relate to the case of freshly baked cookies / biscuits transporting us back to happy times in childhood or the sweet smell of cinnamon / gingerbread associated with Christmas. Also aware that Lavender can help with sleep. Our sense of taste is very much related to our sense of smell, remember when you have been ill with a blocked nose and everything tastes bland or different.
Smells detected by the nose send a message to the brain which sends to the limbic system which is important for memory, mood and emotion.
Some facts from https://www.aromaco.co.uk/20-fascinating-facts-about-our-sense-of-smell/
Your scent cells are renewed every 4 weeks
Studies show that 75% of emotions are triggered by smell which is linked to pleasure, well-being, emotion and memory
The sense of smell is the first of all our senses to develop. Even before we are born, our sense of smell is fully formed and functioning.
Your sense of smell accounts for 75-95% of the impact a flavour has. Without being able to smell the difference between onion and potato, it’d be difficult to tell them apart.
Recently I was given a product to review. It was the Scentered Signature Collection of Wellbeing Ritual Balms - 100% Aromatherapy. Not really having used aromatherapy or essential oils except on the occasions of having a cold using menthol or Eucalyptus based products and good old Vicks or a splash of aftershave after shaving I was curious.
This collection has five handy sized balms to help us feel:
De-stressed
Escape
Focus
Happy
Sleep Well
Each is blended with 100% natural, eco-conscious, plant based ingredients to create fragrances with therapeutic effects. Imagine you want to feel
De-stressed before an important meeting
Focused while you work on an important activity
Needing to get a good, rested sleep
Just need an uplift of feeling happier when feeling a little down
Escape and be inspired
then use the appropriate balm following the 3 simple steps:
STOP : apply to wrist, neck and temples
INHALE : deeply
RESET : your mood
I have done this before going to sleep when feeling in need of a deep relaxation, before sitting to get on with some work, before my public meetings and private meetings and it has been beneficial. The wonderful scents are released immediately as well as noticing them over time and reminding to be centred. Each is combined from 3 exotic ingredients including : Chamomile, Lemon Myrtle, Ylang Ylang, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Neroli amongst others.
The 3 simple steps are quick and easy to apply with the balms coming in a portable, handy size.
It is part of my self care ritual that I used these to feel a particular way at particular times. I also love the fact that 10% of net profits are donated to Women for Women International - a charity.
I applied focus balm before writing this piece, it worked.
Find out more at: https://scentered.me/
https://scentered.me/products/signature-ritual-collection
Additional information
https://www.fifthsense.org.uk/psychology-and-smell/
https://www.aromaco.co.uk/20-fascinating-facts-about-our-sense-of-smell/
A mindfulness Exercise
There is a quick grounding mindfulness exercise called 5-4-3-2-1 related to the senses and observing and connecting to your senses right now, give it a go
5 - look for 5 things around you right now and say them out load
4 - 4 things you can touch and feel
3 - 3 things you can hear
2 - 2 things you can smell
1 - 1 thing you can taste
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaileen-shah/
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
I GOT HIGH ON GRASS, WEED AND POT
It’s been tough times with many challenges, stresses and emotions to deal with. Some dealt with and some not so well. To help I have turned to grass, weed and pot. Here I share some of those experiences, insights and learning.
I GOT HIGH ON GRASS, WEED & POT
It’s been tough times with many challenges, stresses and emotions to deal with. Some dealt with well and some not so well. To help I have turned to grass, weed and pot. Here I share some of those experiences, insights and learning.
I am not talking about getting high on grass, weed or pot in the sense of drugs but about positive emotions from gardening and nature.
Grass
The grass is greener where you water it
Neil Barringham.
During Spring I took out the lawnmower and cut the lawn. Then many weeks passed and the grass grew and grew. Once again I took out the less than 1 year old lawnmower, set it to the lower setting to cut the grass very short and started to mow the lawn. The lawnmower was hard to push, struggled and did not make a lot of headway. Then it stopped working. Could it be the fuse, the socket, the extension lead, the lawnmower? I checked the lawnmower cord into the extension lead, that was fine. I checked the extension lead into the wall socket and that it was switched on - that was fine too. I plugged in another device in the wall socket to confirm socket was fine, did the same with the extension lead. They were all fine, so by process of elimination the problem was with the lawnmower or its cord/plug. Changing the fuse made no difference. Was the lawnmower still in warranty? Was it going to cost a fortune to solve?
I unplugged the lawnmower, turned it upside down and checked the blades etc. The long grass had got entwined around the blade spinner (hover mover) and stopped it from spinning. Slowly I removed all the strands that were wrapped around, plugged in the mower, and started it. The joyous sound of a whirling blade was heard. A few weeks later I cut the grass again on mid height setting and also used strimmer. So what were the lessons learned?
Lessons learned
If you try to cut too long a grass with too low a setting it won’t work. You have to tackle the challenge with the right setting. To be effective, the ability to produce and the capability of producing need to be on par. Too big a challenge without the correct ability will lead to failure.
When you have a big problem, break the problem down into smaller chunks and tackle each one to identify where the actual problem is.
Once you identify the problem establish if you can fix it yourself or need expert help
For maintaining a good lawn or anything else it requires regular attention /cutting/ routines at the appropriate frequency be that daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or yearly.
Know which tool to use for which problem. If the only tool in your tool box is a hammer all your problems will look like nails. Use correct tools for the correct job, using the strimmer or hand shears to cut the long grass may not be the best approach. Using a spade would be the wrong tool for the job.
Stephen Covey 7th Habit : Sharpen the Saw - keep the saw sharp to do the job. Keep learning, investing and developing yourself.
Establishing, investigating and resolving the problem myself gave a satisfaction and affirmed my growth mindset and provided an entry for my happiness journal - I could have got a gardener to do the job. Where and when appropriate I get the correct help involved.
What is needed for Growth (Pot)?
What is needed for Growth?
.
When I Google to see what is need for growth, in particular plant growth the results shown vary from 4 to 7 things. The four things are best described with this acronym: LAWN
L = Light - Sunlight
A = Air - Carbon dioxide
W = Water - H20
N = Nutrients - Soil etc
The magic of photosynthesis in plants takes water (Carbon dioxide) + Water + Energy from light to transform it; using Chlorophyll; into food (glucose) and oxygen.
The additional items are : The right temperature, room to grow (space) and time - it is not overnight.
Similarly for our growth we need the right environment (air to breathe, water to hydrate, food for nutrients, people, etc), goals to grow towards (sunlight), space to grow - not be constrained or limited by our thinking, beliefs, fears and time. We often also need a catalyst like the Chlorophyll to create that growth transformation - this may be internal or external.
What makes the plant strong and build resilience is exposure to challenge - rain, wind, sun, insects, etc. Similarly challenge helps us grow and develop resilience. The plant if in a pot needs to be in the right size of the pot, as it outgrows the pot it should be re-potted into a bigger pot so it has space to grow. Likewise we need to move out of our comfort zone into a slightly bigger zone, grow and keep going. If we try to move out too far too fast, similar to a seedling being put into a very large pot it will struggle.
Strong, deep roots are needed.
Here is an interesting video shared by KarmaTube about how trees talk to each other thought their roots.
Gardening & Community Gardens
We might think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us” -Jenny Uglow
Many thanks to Devi for sharing the above quote in the Happy Life Habits Community Facebook Group.
Being in nature and gardening have many beneficial effects. Some I have experienced when gardening, tree planting, working in a community garden or being in nature are relate to the happiness/health dimensions of Physical, Mental, Social/Emotional and Spiritual :
Connection
Community
Mindfulness, Present moment awareness
Focus, Distance from our troubles
Relaxation, Therapeutic
Nurturing growth
Working with our hands
Vitamin D
Noticing smells, the air and watching the wildlife
Reminded of what we sow is what we reap
Pruning - get rid of habits, beliefs and things that don’t serve us to allow space for those that do
The greenness and expanse of nature has a calming and awe inspiring effect. The colour green is relaxing hence in TV studios they have the green room used before people go on air. This article shares the benefits of gardening and being in greenery.
Martine Drake from Mind in Enfield & Barnet took part in the Happy Life Habits 30 Day Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course. She runs a community garden and has this to share:
Results suggest that community gardens were perceived by gardeners to provide numerous health benefits, including improved access to food, improved nutrition, increased physical activity and improved mental health. Community gardens were also seen to promote social health and community cohesion.
From my experiences running the garden for Mind in Enfield and Barnet, we have seen increased physical activity (including from walking to and from the site) and improved mental health mainly from being with other people in an attractive environment.
Weed
Weeds take no effort to grow and they grow quickly.
They take nutrients away from plants/flowers.
Negative thoughts are like weeds. They are an energy drain.
We have to put in effort to remove them, take them out at the roots, plough the land (mind) and plant the seeds we want to nurture, feed, cultivate, blossom and bear fruit.
The world is on a negative bias and the work of Barbara Fredrickson on positive emotions shows that we need a ratio of 3:1 of positive emotions to negative to balance out the negative. Likewise for a wonderful bloom we need to plant many more flowers than weeds so there is hardly any room for the weeds to grow.
We have to actively remove the weeds/negative thoughts and cultivate the flowers/positivity we want to blossom, enjoy and share.
“Happiness held is the seed,
Happiness shared is the flower” - John Harrigan
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaileen-shah/
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk
The UN's International Day Of Happiness
As a Happiness Coach and Happy Life Habits we love the International Day of Happiness, dedicated to celebrating the importance of happiness. We are celebrating with an event and also share some other activities that we are aware of that are going on related to this. Wishing you a Happy Day celebrating the International Day of Happiness.
As a Happiness Coach and Happy Life Habits we love the International Day of Happiness, dedicated to celebrating the importance of happiness. We are celebrating with an event and also share some other activities that we are aware of that are going on related to this. Wishing you a Happy Day celebrating the International Day of Happiness.
What is the International Day of Happiness?
The UN says
It’s a day to be happy, of course! Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated the International Day of Happiness as a way to recognise the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world. In 2015, the UN launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to end poverty, reduce inequality, and protect our planet – three key aspects that lead to well-being and happiness.
The United Nations invites each person of any age, plus every classroom, business and government to join in celebration of the International Day of Happiness.
Happy Life Habits Celebrating International Day of Happiness
Our Inspiration Point Podcast episodes on either side of the International Day of Happiness, 17th March with Sacha Clark and 24th with Mary Thomson are both who have trained in teaching happiness.
Happy Life Habits is celebrating with a event on the actual day, there will be various zones such as laughter, relaxation, life after loss, gratitude and more for people to discuss, share, express, explore, listen and connect. We will have comedy, laughter yoga, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping, rebuilding life after loss, gratitude and more. This celebration is delivered with the help of:
Mary Thomson will share a Playful blending of Happiness, Laughter Yoga, Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mary is a trained nurse and nurse trainer who has taken training in Happiness Teaching, Laughter Yoga, Mindfulness and Gratitude. More about Mary on Inspiration Point Podcast page.
Kalpana Doshi will combine Laughter Yoga and lead a Meditation
Kalpana is a certified Laughter Yoga practitioner based in London, with more than eight years of experience across the UK and internationally. (www.spiritlaughter.com)
Mel Byron will bring smiles with Comedy and Laughter
Mel is a trainer and stand-up comedian, who passionately believes in joy, confidence and kindness being the keys to success in work and in life. More about Mel on Inspiration Point Podcast page. ( www.melbyron.com)
Suraj Shah will hold space on “Rebuilding a calm, joyful and purposeful life following the loss of a loved one”
Suraj holds deep conversations with those seeking to rebuild their lives following a significant change or loss. For instance, the death of a loved one or a change of role due to redundancy, retirement or when children have grown up and left the nest. (www.SurajShah.com)
Nina Joshi Ramsey will conduct EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping
Nina is an author, speaker, trainer with skills in stress management, Reiki and healing techniques including EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) - Tapping. More about Nina on Inspiration Point Podcast page. (www.ninajoshiramsey.com)
Hansa Pankhania will lead a Relaxation Meditation
Hansa is a Stress Resilience & Wellbeing Expert and Author, Executive Coach and Speaker, and cherishes the opportunity to support the world in managing the stress and anxiety that is prevalent in society today. More about Hansa on Inspiration Point Podcast page. (www.aumconsultancy.co.uk)
Melanie Bloch will share Laughter from the Inside Out
Melanie is a Holistic Laughter Coach - student and facilitator of' A Course In Miracles' Laughter Therapist, Laughter Yoga Teacher, Advanced Bodyworker, Theta Healer, Thought Field Therapist and Reiki Master with over 25 years in the Complementary Medicine Field.(www.melaniebloch.co.uk)
Shaileen Shah will hosting, celebrating and looking forward to conversations on happiness
Shaileen is a happiness coach, speaker and trainer. He is trained in the Science of Happiness and through Happy Life Habits positively impacts Happiness & Wellbeing Levels. (www.HappyLifeHabits.co.uk).
Tickets can be booked here.
Action for Happiness - 10 Days of Happiness
Action for Happiness a non-profit movement of people from 160 countries helps coordinate activities of the UN’s International Day of Happiness.
For a month long coping calendar and to join a 10 day online happiness course see https://www.dayofhappiness.net/#new
The Museum Of Happiness - Celebrate International Day of Happiness! 20th March 11am -12pm
Our friends The Museum of Happiness each year celebrate this day. This year join Museum of Happiness co-founder Vicky, to explore and create your very own mini Museum of Happiness, and learn simple but science-backed ways to add a little happiness to your every day.
Aimed at everyone from 5 to 95, bring some art supplies and a sense of play, and let’s make it a day of happiness - together!
The session will be held on Zoom and you will receive and email nearer to the time with everything you need for the session.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celebrate-international-day-of-happiness-tickets-144239617579
The Slough Collective - Feel Good Festival 10:30 - 5:45pm
Our friends at the Slough Collective have put on a Feel Good Festival with a variety of activities including meditation, cooking, creative writing, laughter and play during 18th, 19th, 20th and 22nd March.
Celebrate International Happiness Day at our Slough’s fifth feel-good festival. Join us on zoom to connect, have fun, and feel-good. You’ll experience 'the five ways to well-being' with Slough Happiness Collective and our co-creators. Andy Craven-Jones (Joygernaut), Friends in Need (MIND Bucks), HOME Slough, Light Mind, Natasha Bloc (ToucanToo), Reading Friends (The Curve & Slough Libraries), Slough CVS, Slough Caribbean Forum, Slough Dominican Association, VIBE (Vision Impression Black Expression), The Samaritans, Tuneless Choir, Yoga with Bali.
The programme includes opportunities to create, learn, relax, and play. Create a perfect pasty, a Polish version of ‘Nutella’ some happy art, happy poems, kind creative writing or an icon for Slough. Learn how to really listen, build your positivity portfolio or how to look after your happiness in challenging times. Relax with happy mindful reading, Tonglen meditation or laughter yoga. Play in our happiness quiz, creative playtime or playful singing for those who can’t sing (and those who can). Pick and mix the sessions to suit you.
We’re bringing together creatives, well-being practitioners and happiness facilitators to give you a chance to have some fun, try something new, learn new skills and meet friends old and new.
Come for the day or as many sessions as you like, just arrive a few minutes before each session. We'll have short breaks between sessions where we'll close Zoom so we can all have a change of space.
For the Creative Playtime with Natasha Block of Toucantoo
Shamash Alidina - Fun Mindfulness for Children and teens 20th March 2-5:30pm
Our friend Shamash a mindfulness teacher and trainer is hosting this event.
This event will bring together 10-20 different mindfulness teachers, trainers and specialists, offering ways to bring mindfulness in a fun and accessible to children of various ages.
Children and teens are welcome to attend, although the day is designed to offer tips to adults who work with children or teens.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fun-mindfulness-for-children-and-teens-tickets-137921479859?ref=eios
Healing Our Earth Happiness & Meditation 21st March 2pm -7pm
A collection of international speakers sharing on happiness and meditation talks and activities. I’ll be speaking at this at 4:15pm (TBC).
Life Counsellor & Spiritual Teacher Lia Steinson & Holistic Laughter Coach Melanie Bloch Tues 23rd March 7pm -9pm
The International Day of Happiness is an annual event organised by the United Nations to promote the idea that feeling happy is a global human right.
Exploring this year's International Day of Happiness Theme
Keep Calm, Stay Wise, Be Kind
Tuesday 23rd March 7-9pm
With Life Counsellor & Spiritual Teacher Lia Steinson and Holistic Laughter Coach Melanie Bloch.
'Whatever turns the corner of your mouth up-trust that' Rumi
An evening of connection, sharing laughter play, enquiry, meditation and music.
Contact Lia on lia.ichooselove@gmail.com to let us know you're attending and to receive the Zoom Link.
Lia Steinson is passionate about our potential to experience lasting happiness, love and inner peace and she has dedicated her life to this purpose as both a Counsellor and Facilitator. Her qualifications and experience are extensive. She focuses particularly on the teachings of A Course in Miracles, Hindu spirituality, non-dual teachings in general and Reichian Bodywork - all with love and joy at their core.
Melanie Bloch
Holistic Laughter Coach - student and facilitator of' A Course In Miracles' Laughter Therapist, Laughter Yoga Teacher, Advanced Bodyworker, Theta Healer, Thought Field Therapist and Reiki Master with over 25 years in the Complementary Medicine Field.‘
Anyone looking for some peace, fun, joy and real healing – I can guarantee Mel will deliver. She is the real deal’.‘
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Community Group
Happy Life Habits FaceBook Page
Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.
A NEW HOPE? OR NO HOPE?
Sometimes with the restrictions of lockdown, the negative news, so many deaths and cold, dark winter we feel like there is no hope and at other times hope is all we have.
The original classic Stars Wars was titled Episode IV : A New Hope. In this blog article I share some recent positive news stories, resources and Happy Life Habits activities.
Sometimes with the restrictions of lockdown, the negative news, so many deaths and cold, dark winter we feel like there is no hope and at other times hope is all we have.
The original classic Stars Wars was titled Episode IV : A New Hope. In this blog article I share some recent positive news stories, resources and Happy Life Habits activities.
Everything is F*cked : A book about Hope
Sometimes it feels like the title of this book. This is a book I recently got hold of, still to be read but looks interesting and the author’s previous book I have seen mentioned.
““Why should I fear death? If I am, then death is not. If Death is, then I am not. Why should I fear that which can only exist when I do not?””
Wonderful Positive News about HelpVeerNow
Veer is a 4 year old boy, son of our friends and from the communities we are part of. He has low blood counts and desperately needs a stem cell donor. The family have set up HelpVeerNow to raise awareness and help campaign to get more people on the the donor lists so they can find a match for Veer and also help others in the same situation to find a match. The numbers of people registered to be a donor is very low especially in BAME. To find a match is like finding a needle in a haystack. It needn’t be. If everyone, including you and people you know registered then there would be plenty of needles to be easily found.
The wonderful news is that three 90% matches have been found. A few months ago there weren’t and the family had been told that Veer had months instead of years to find a transplant donor as his counts had dropped.
You can listen to the family’s journey on the BBC World Service recording. It is very powerful, positive, uplifting and funny with the mention of a stem cell donut! and Veer going out to look for his superhero donor. What comes through the the emotional and mental struggles, them leaning into their Jain faith and keeping focused on the positive. Even with Veer having a match, the campaigning continues as many more people needed on the registers.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct1fq8
I am privileged to say the family are part of the Happy Life Habits Community, attended workshops and training courses. In May 2020 when a Veer’s Virtual Extravaganza was held, Happy Life Habits was honoured to serve in opening the Extravaganza with a Happiness and Gratitude workshop.
Resource: Coping in a Crisis
Hansa Pankhania a new acquaintance is an author, coach and consultant who will be in a future series of the Inspiration Point Podcast. She has written a variety of books on Stress, Crisis as well as stories. Her most recent is title Coping in a Crisis and covers coping with loss, financial loss, grief, relationship and including coping strategies. The book is free to download from www.aumconsultancy.co.uk.
Hansa has been inspired by Deepak Chopra’s WellBeing Centre - more in future Inspiration Point Podcast .
JVB London: The Future of Wellbeing & Higher Consciousness by Dr. Deepak Chopra
Recently I was able to attend a zoom meeting with the world reknowned Deepak Chopra. It was organised by JVB London and titled The Future of Wellbeing & Higher Consciousness by Dr. Deepak Chopra. The recording is here and well worth listening to. It resonated on some many levels for me and I loved watching it.
Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course
Gratitude has been shown to increase the chances of psychologically surviving hard times. In the HLH Gratitude Workshops I share that gratitude helps :
Us feel less deflated
Gives Hope
Helps Heal
It certainly has done this for me through life’s various challenges and has helped over 50 people who have taken the 30 day Happy Life Habits Gratitude & Journal Habit Immersion Training Course. It is a pro-social behaviour making use feel more connected.
I’ll share a recent testimonial:
“I’ve just completed the Happiness and Gratitude training programme that Shaileen hosted.
We all ‘know’ what to do and how to ‘be’ happy, positive and grateful but it’s not always something that’s at the forefront of our minds when we are in the day to day of our lives. I booked on this course back in November as something to look forward to for the start of the year.
Alongside Shaileens’ great questions and coaching support, there was a daily journal to complete.
The whole programme was really, really good. My mindset has grown stronger as a result of the course and for anyone who wants some MH (Mental Health) support, to be able to see the ‘wood for the trees’ or like me, just wants to spend a bit of time focussing on the ‘haves’ vs the ‘have nots’ - this is for you.
I highly recommend it to you and to anyone who supports MH in the workplace. It’s fabulous.”
If you want to know more, sign up or join waiting list go to https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/habit-immersion
Inspiration Point Podcast Series 2
We reach half way through series 2 with 2 fantastic episodes completed and the 3rd due in a few hours as I write. The sessions I have found and feedback received as being unique, inspiring, positive, uplifting and an hour well spent. Episode 5 is about my cousin Dr Ajay Shah who is the older brother of episode 3 Niraj Shah. Earlier we shared Veer was looking for a super hero to be his stem cell donor. Episode 5 is Dr Ajay Shah - Super Hero Doctor. In recent ITV news about the Covid19 vaccination programme, Ajay has been caught in action.
Past recordings you can find at https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/inspiration-point and if you would like or know one who may be great to take part in a future episode please fill out the simple form at https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/inspiration-point-form.
Happy life habits connected conversations
I have recently had wonderful conversations related to Happy Life Habits projects. One was with a friend, HLH community member and course graduate. They asked what is the difference between motivation and inspiration. I had a good think, some ideas, did research and confirmed my thoughts plus additional concepts. We had a great conversation sharing and deepening each of our understanding. I’ll share at a later date the ideas shared. That conversation, the HLH Book Club plus writings on connection, relationships, isolation shared over the last year help give more traction to the idea of Connected Conversations.
To help foster connection, reduce sense of isolation and pro-social behaviour plus its benefits we have a new initiative we are exploring: Connected Conversations. It is not a workshop, it is not a talk. It’s a conversation.
30-60 mins - join on time, leave at anytime
1:1 and 1:many conversations
Move to different conversation groups at will
Using wonder.me platform
Discuss, share, express, explore, listen, connect
Theme: Relationships and Connection
Date & Time: Sunday 14th Feb 10:30am -11:30am
Where: Wonder.me
Here are some links to previous articles and workshop recordings from 2020 on Happier Relationships that I am quite proud of and people have found useful. https://www.happylifehabits.co.uk/news/2020/2/6/happier-relationships
A request dear friend and reader.
(1) If you have enjoyed some of the articles I have shared and found useful please reply to shaileen@happylifehabits.co.uk and let me know.
(2) If you are not a subscriber to the Happy Life Habits email list - please sign up.
(3) If you think someone else might benefit from this please share with them.
(4) If you want to engage my services for coaching, speaking or training get in touch and lets see if we can create a win-win result.
If you want to receive articles, information on events and support Happy Life Habits sign up to the join the email list.
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Shaileen Shah is a Happiness Coach, Speaker and Trainer. Previously having been in finance technology for the investment banking arm of RBS during the RBS takeover of Natwest, the RBS takeover of ABN Ambro and the financial crisis he has experienced the challenges brought by uncertainty, change and stress. He is certified in The Science of Happiness and shares through Happy Life Habits. Happy Life Habits Positively Impacts Happiness & Well Being Levels by creatively and uniquely combining Personal Development + The Science of Happiness + Spirituality. A business for Good; supporting the UNs Sustainable Development Goals. For more information see HappyLifeHabits.co.uk.