11 Ways to Get a Happy Heart

Instead of having a journal to write down your daily gripes, keep one where you write down all the things you are grateful for. More times than not, people have a tendency to complain about all the things wrong in their lives rather than everything that is going right. By having a book of everything you are thankful for, you can go back and reflect when you need a pick-me-up.

Having an aspiration journal, or simply a to do list that doesn't involve your daily errands can help you see the bigger picture. Durvasula suggests writing down everything you want to do, whether it be visiting a friend who just had a baby or taking that trip you've always wanted to go on. Regular to do lists often leave you feeling weighed down, but by having your dreams on paper you can open up your mind to new possibilities and things you may not have thought about trying before.

Find out more ways to get a bad day back on track.

This is probably the easiest exercise you'll ever learn. On your usual Saturday morning coffee run smile at the barista, ask how they are doing, and (here's the catch) actually mean it. Almost every time you'll spark a smile for someone else and will get an immediate return on your investment of kindness. Now, you've not only improved your day but possibly brightened someone else's.

Even a brisk ten minute walk at lunchtime can lift your spirits. If you start to feel sluggish at your desk, get up and take a walk around the block. Grab a coworker if they can spare a few minutes to join you for a quick catch up and you've now done two mood boosting techniques!

Tone up in 20 minutes with these walking and strengthening exercises.

No, you don't have to sit barefoot chanting "ohm" for hours on end. Meditating is as simple as closing your eyes for five minutes, clearing your mind of everything, and breathing in and out deeply. You can do it anywhere — your car (not while driving of course), your desk, or in your bed before going to sleep to relax and unwind.

Make sure those "ohms" don't turn into "zzzs." Find out how to stay awake while meditating with these tricks.

If your desk, office, or apartment is looking cluttered, more times than not so is your mind. Since you're more prone to be inside more with the cold weather, take the time to clean out your personal space and de-clutter your life. Then, try small tweaks like painting a wall or hanging some new pictures to get rid of cabin fever and brighten your outlook on your space.

There is nothing better than leaving the salon with a brand new cut or trying on a new look. If you're itching for a change but are holding out until you've reached your dream weight, stop waiting, says Durvasula. Get clothes that fit well now and put some extra effort into the rest of your look. Once you start putting the best version of you out there, you'll immediately start to feel better and stand a little taller.

Take a break from the tube and in your free time, volunteer instead. Whether you do it for a day, a weekend, or join a program for the long haul you'll quickly realize how good it feels to help others in need. To find an opportunity that's a good fit for you, visit volunteerinternational.org.

This technique is perfect for those in a rut or someone coming fresh off of a breakup. The best way to feel important is to try something new, Durvasula advises. Whether it's taking that spin class at the gym you've always feared or stepping up for a new project at work if you can successfully handle a new hurdle you'll gain a whole new level of confidence and self worth.

Traveling doesn't have to hurt your piggybank or be reserved for a special occasion. Become a tourist in your hometown for a day and go somewhere you've never been before, like a different city, a new restaurant, or even a museum. If you can pull it off treat yourself to a weekend destination. It's the perfect way to jumpstart a brand new attitude!