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In her article, "10 Things Science Says Will Make You Happy," in YES! Magazine (Winter 2008), Jen Angel shares some "scientifically proven strategies for getting happy." A few examples...

• Avoid Comparisons. While keeping up with the Joneses is part of American culture, comparing ourselves with others can be damaging to happiness and self-esteem. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, focusing on our own personal achievements leads to greater satisfaction.
• Put Money Low on the List. People who put money high on their priority list are more at risk for depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.... The more we seek satisfaction in material goods, the less we will find it there.
• Have Meaningful Goals. People who strive for something significant, whether it's learning a new craft or raising moral children, are far happier than those who don't have strong dreams or aspirations.... As humans, we actually require a sense of meaning to thrive.
• Make Friends, Treasure Family. Happier people tend to have good families, friends, and supportive relationships.... We don't just need relationships; we need close ones that involve understanding and caring.
• Give it Away. Make altruism and giving part of your life, and be purposeful about it.... Helping a neighbor, volunteering, or donating goods and services result in a "helpers high" and you get more health benefits than you would from exercising or quitting smoking.

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As we approach the end of another year, its time to think about giving gifts. And, every day this week we will generously give you another gift idea from Exchange. Today we recommend as a great gift idea for any early childhood professional Rusty Keeler's beautiful new book, Natural Playscapes: Creating Outdoor Play Environments for the Soul. This book is about a new movement in children’s outdoor play areas, natural playscapes: Where the entire space and is filled with art, hills, pathways, trees, herbs, open areas, sand, water, music, and more.... This magnificent 316-page resource contains close to 500 color photographs and illustrations.

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