Hey Foodies!

We talk a lot about health—eating well, exercising, sleeping enough. But what if we told you that happiness is just as crucial to your well-being as your diet and workouts? This week, we’re diving into positive psychology—aka, the science of what makes life worth living. And trust us, this isn’t just about “thinking happy thoughts.”

Joining us is Dr. Liana Leonov, an expert in positive psychology, who walks us through practical ways to boost happiness, resilience, and even live longer—no ice baths or meditation required.

🥕 What is Positive Psychology, Really?

Forget toxic positivity—this field of research is all about real ways to thrive, not just survive. Instead of only fixing what’s wrong, positive psychology focuses on what makes us flourish. Think: happiness, gratitude, purpose, and strong relationships.

🍓 The 5-Question Life Satisfaction Test

Want to know how happy you really are? Dr. Lianov shares a five-question quiz that can measure your overall life satisfaction. This is a questionnaire that is widely used by psychologist as a pretty reliable measure of how an individual feels about their life overall. Try it for yourself and see where you land!

🥑 How Happiness Affects Your Health

Turns out, happiness isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s a major factor in your physical well-being. Research shows that practicing gratitude, kindness, and connection can lower inflammation, boost your heart health, and even extend your lifespan.

🥦 Simple Ways to Boost Your Mood Today

• Practice gratitude (but not every day—Dr. Leonov explains why!).

• Find your flow—whether it’s running, painting, or even gardening.

• Strengthen your relationships with small, meaningful moments.

• Identify your strengths and use them daily.

🌟 Your Challenge This Week

Pick one thing from the list above and give it a shot. Maybe send a thoughtful text to a friend, take a moment to appreciate something good in your day, or do an activity that makes you lose track of time. Small actions = big impact.

Want even more science-backed tips? Our bonus episode covers flow states, kindness, and why helping others actually helps you, too. Check it out here.

Until next time, keep thriving!
— Yuna & Eddie