A University of Bristol course called Science of Happiness improved student’s well-being. But a follow-up study found happiness benefits faded unless they continued to practice what they learned—such as gratitude, exercise, meditation or journaling. In short, happiness can be learned, but you have to work at it. Among the pointers in the course are talking to strangers makes us happier, even if its natural to shy away from such encounters. It suggests giving gifts to others may make us happier than spending on ourselves. Optimism makes us happier and increases life expectancy. Walking in nature deactivates parts of the brain associated with negative feelings and depression. All of these aspects of happiness are within our reach.