HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE: CHOOSE IT EVERY SINGLE DAY

In my Facebook page you will see that I wrote these words -- "Happiness is a choice. Write, Travel, Create."  3 years into blogging, I still believed in these words. Really, happiness is a choice every single day.

In my recent trip to Japan, I felt happy every single day. I celebrated little accomplishments -- such as not getting lost in the subway (google maps was my best friend), experiencing food and places for the very first time, meeting Japanese who were willing to help and smiling all the way. It was time to be more mindful in my day to day experiences. I need to be appreciative and enthusiastic about life. 

I was at my happiest when I was in the gardens of the Osaka Castle -- literally doing nothing. I just sat for a long time, reflected on things, enjoying the cold weather (I was freezing at 12nn), and tried to imprint on my mind the view of the gardens. 

And I realized, when I feel happy, I get motivated to do things (more travel), I get inspired to work more (felt energized by the new environment) and I just said to God "thank you for giving me this life. It isn't perfect, but I have lots to be grateful about."  My Japan experience really opened my heart to gratitude.

Another learning -- happiness is pleasure + purpose. Now I have a definite goal in mind. To work extra hard, save, and bring my family to different places. The happiness I felt, could reach maximum level, if I have my loved ones with me on my travels.

THE HAPPINESS HORMONES

In Japan, I walked a lot. I am sure, plenty of ENDORPHINS were released, one of the hormones that triggers happiness. Because of the cold weather, I got exposed to sunlight. I had a dose of DOPAMINE too - the "chemical of reward". I was stressed at the start of my Japan journey because the train system was too confusing for me. But every time I reach my destination -- I felt extremely happy and accomplished -- that is DOPAMINE working for me. 

But now that I am at home, I get my dose of OXYTOCIN. If you want to get this, give your loved ones a big hug. Even your pet. Of you can stimulate your mind but exposing your senses to HAPPY scents!

When a smell travels through your nose into the brain, it can trigger the hormones I mentioned. Smell has the power to change your mood and ease tension.

PERFUME DESSERT LONDON

I discovered Perfume Dessert London -- and you know what? It triggered some level of happiness and gives me that refreshing feeling in the midst of this summer heat.

What I love about Perfume Dessert London -- it is just 30ml. safe to bring on my flight abroad, no need to check in. I really liked the well thought of packaging - you wouldn't think that the perfume only costs Php250. The packaging suggests that it is an expensive brand :)  

As for the scent, I love the refreshing cucumber-melon cooler.  The other two variants, the raspberry smoothies and cake pops - I thought would be too "sweet" to wear.  But the smell in not that overpowering. Just a tiny tinge of sweetness in it. Perfect for daily use, even in this humidity and hot weather we are now experiencing. 

You can get more info and update on Perfume Dessert London by visiting their facebook page and instagram account  

Looking forward to share with you more of my happy stories on my recent Japan trip.  See yah!!!