26 sensations you should have at some point in your life

With a birthday approaching, I’ve been thinking about sensations. I have many. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my short time on Earth, it’s the importance of being in touch with yourself on an emotional level. Every interaction and experience generates a sensation (or several), and it’s important to be aware of this.

What makes us human are the emotions we experience on a regular basis. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing – in fact, it’s what gives life value.

See below 26 sensations that you should have at some point in your life:

“I just have a lot of feelings.”

1. The feeling of traveling to a new place.

Few things are more exciting than exploring unknown territories, whether in another country or your own city. Science confirms: research shows that people are happier when they spend money on experiences than on material goods.

2. The feeling of laughing until your stomach hurts.

It’s the best kind of cheap. Laughter really is the best medicine. Studies suggest that it can boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, and yes, increase your levels of happiness.

3. The feeling of hearing “I love you”.

It doesn’t matter if your partner, your parents or your best friend said it: love is an experience that biologically unites mind and body. It’s the really universal feeling.

4. The feeling of doing a random kindness.

Putting a smile on someone’s face can have an impact on their level of happiness. Not to mention you’re also making the world a better place.

5. The feeling of receiving kindness.

Keep the cycle.

6. The feeling of speaking your mind.

Research suggests that overthinking can not only create more stress, but also get in the way of performing simple tasks. You have every right to express your thoughts and opinions. State them clearly and with conviction.

“That’s my opinion!”

7. The feeling when someone understands you.

You know what I’m talking about: the Harry Potter to your Ron Weasley. Nutella for your, well, everything.

Few sensations are better than knowing that you have found your person.

The result is that you become a much better person: a 2011 study showed that being with your best friend helps reduce stress.

8. The feeling of appreciating yourself.

Research shows that self-acceptance is the key to a happier life, but the habit people cultivate the least.

Repeat: taking care of yourself is not selfish.

9. The feeling of a broken heart.

It is impossible to spend your whole life having only pleasant sensations. She is also made of difficult stages, including heartache. But it is in these moments that we learn the most about ourselves.

10. The feeling of total relaxation.

Burnout is real, and the best way to combat it is to take the time to just be.

Relaxing isn’t just good for your physical and mental health, it’s simply delicious.

11. The feeling of winning a surprise party.

What’s better than loved ones coming together to make you feel special? (Answer: nothing).

12. The feeling of grabbing a fluffy animal.

As Charles Schulz once said, “Happiness is a hot dog.”

Pets make you a happier and healthier person. If you want to know what unconditional love is, spend time with a dog. You will understand what I’m talking about.

“I can not talk now.”

13. The feeling of waking up after a good night’s sleep.

Sleep is for the strong. Waking up refreshed helps you face the day with enthusiasm (not to mention it’s good for your health. Nobody wakes up exhausted saying, “I feel amazing!”

14. The feeling of intensely enjoying the moment.

That amazing show. A conversation with a friend. Play with your children on the playground. Allow yourself to live in the here and now. Being present has a lot of power.

15. The feeling after saying goodbye.

No kidding: it’s awful to say goodbye. But it’s part of life. You cannot live avoiding painful, difficult, or challenging emotions. Because, as tough as they are, they precipitate change.

16. The feeling of turning a new place into a home.

Researchers have long studied homesickness. According to them, it is a form of anxiety. As CNN reports, the phenomenon is explained “by our instinctive need for love, protection and security – sensations normally associated with home”.

So when you adapt to a new environment, that craving for what is family dissipates because your new home is what is familiar – and that is an exceptional form of growth.

17. The feeling of failure.

Life is not written in pencil. You don’t live if you make mistakes that can’t be fixed. What matters is how you change after them. It builds character and helps you succeed.

18. The feeling after an exercise session.

Don’t try to fight the science: endorphins are real. You are happier after exercising.

19. The feeling of anger.

Containing anger is not necessarily good for your well-being.

Sometimes it’s a wake-up call. This doesn’t mean you have to beat up those who crossed you, but maybe it’s a sign to reassess the circumstances (and the person) that made you feel that way.

20. The feeling of making a new friend.

This connection is not just in your head. Studies show that social connections activate the brain’s reward center.

21. The feeling of success.

It doesn’t matter if he’s big or small, you deserve to feel fulfilled. A trick to achieving your goals: put them on paper. Research shows that it helps you stay on track.

22. A sense of acceptance.

Being accepted is a very important feeling. This is not only true for others, but also for you. You are your biggest fan.

23. The feeling of landing your dream job.

Employees are happiest when they are engaged with their work. You spend many hours a day working and you deserve to feel satisfied with your job.

24. The feeling of validation.

Don’t let others confirm who you really are. Your opinions are valid. Your work is valid. And, yes, your feelings are valid.

25. The feeling of being alone.

Do not confuse with loneliness. Being alone is good. Spending time in your own company is healthy for your mental well-being. You are awesome. Why not spend some time with yourself?

26. The feeling of complete happiness.

Because, above all, you deserve to feel happiness.

This article was originally published on HuffPost Brazil and was written by Lindsay Holmes.