Thinking happy thoughts can bring a wealth of good to your overall well-being. Positive thinkers cope better with stress, have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and possess a stronger immunity. Here are five simple ways to think yourself happy:

Be grateful. The law of attraction isn’t just a myth. The more you take notice of the blessings that come your way, the more blessings you will receive. Conversely, the more you complain and focus on the negative, the more challenges you will undergo. To practice being more grateful, take the time out each night to be grateful for five things that occurred during the day. You can jot this down in your own gratitude journal or download gratitude apps from the net.

Surround yourself with positive people. Positivity is contagious. If you spend more time with people who look at the brighter side of life, you will tend to do the same. Avoid people who seem to complain about every little thing. Surround yourself with family and friends who, despite daily nuances or challenges, choose to still have a pleasant disposition.

Meditate. Meditation is the art of silencing the mind. By taking a few minutes each day to meditate, you gain a wealth of physical and mental benefits. By learning how to control your mind and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself, meditation can help increase happiness.

Laugh. “Laughter is the best medicine” is cliché but it rings true for all. Find humor in the worst situations. Watch comedy sitcoms, stand-up comedy shows, or spend time with kids. Smile or laugh even when you don’t feel like it and you will feel a boost in your mood even on the gloomiest of days.

Practice positivism. Thinking positively is a skill that requires practice. Like any skill, the more you do it, the better you become. Focus on the good when confronted with unfortunate events. Pull yourself out of negative self-talk when you find yourself spiraling downward. Learn to do this in the face of every difficult situation and you thinking positively will eventually become a habit.