Being satisfied with your life is a good thing. That may be an obvious statement, but the more researchers look at life satisfaction and its role in our lives the more it becomes evident that it has a direct impact on how healthy we are.

So, what makes us happy? In the last few years the field of positive psychology has started to produce significant answers to this important question. Dr. Nansook Park, Dr. Christopher Peterson and Dr. Martin Seligman carried out a study with more than 4000 participants. This revealed that five significant factors --gratitude, optimism, zest, curiosity, and the ability to love and be loved--are closely and consistently related to life satisfaction. Look at this list again. It doesn't include being beautiful, having lots of money or going on expensive holidays. It is a list of factors that are within our control.

So look around and find all the things that you can feel grateful for. Think of things that make you feel optimistic - I know there's cause for pessimism and concern, but there is also much to be optimistic about. Find some zest in your life, not through drink or drugs, but something that you care passionately about, something that gets your juices flowing. Curiosity? I'm curious to know what you're curious about! Think of something that you would like to understand better, and surf the web or get a book out of a library or talk to someone who knows about the subject. Finally, think of people you love, and take a moment to tell them how much you care.

Put these activities into your life on a regular basis and find a greater level of life satisfaction, happiness and health.

Jane Thurnell-Read is a writer and researcher on health, stress, alternative medicine, and happiness. Visit her web site http://www.healthandgoodness.com for tips and information on how to live a happier, healthier life no matter how busy you are.