Vitality is the sense of mental and physical freedom; a powerful inner energy that fuels us to live fully and connect deeply. It’s about beginning each day with purpose and feeling a strong sense of belonging with those around us. Often described as “health of spirit,” vitality is the positive feeling of aliveness and energy that lies at the heart of well-being.

Living a vital life, filled with purpose and engagement, helps us manage stress more effectively. When we feel energized and connected, it becomes easier to cope with anxiety, lower stress levels, and lift our mood. Vitality is also linked to positive emotions like joy, satisfaction, and gratitude, creating a cycle of well-being that enhances both mental and physical health.

However, many people struggle with vitality due to a combination of modern lifestyle factors, environmental influences, and various internal and external challenges. Chronic stress, poor sleep, inadequate nutrition, lack of physical activity, disconnection and isolation, a lack of purpose or fulfillment, negative thought patterns, and digital overload are just some of the key reasons behind this struggle.

The good news is that by knowing the right steps to take, small, simple actions can lead to remarkable improvements. To help guide us on this journey, The Happier Life Project welcomes Suzanne Boerma, a vitality expert from The Netherlands, with eight years of experience helping people lead healthier, more balanced lives. Suzanne works for a local authority, assisting individuals in adopting healthier habits, and also freelances with various occupational health services to support employees facing mental health challenges, helping them reclaim well-being and reintegrate into the workplace.

Talking to host Gabby Sanderson, Suzanne explains why feeling connected to others, an essential part of vitality, improves emotional stability, reduces loneliness, and fosters a sense of belonging, all of which are crucial for mental health. Suzanne shares insights into building and sustaining vitality, explaining why small lifestyle changes can make a significant impact. She also discusses her non-negotiable daily habits that help her lead her most vibrant life and teaches listeners the four short, simple exercises she calls the "vita-break", easy stretches you can do daily from your desk to improve posture and relieve the tension that builds up in hunched muscles.

Listen now for the best hacks to boost physical and mental energy and infuse every day with renewed purpose. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, re-energize your body, or simply add a few moments of self-care into your busy schedule, Suzanne’s practical advice is sure to inspire. Join us as we uncover the small shifts that lead to a more vibrant, fulfilling life; one step, stretch, and vita-break at a time.

To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast