Forcing yourself to smile may sound silly, but plenty of research shows that it can help you feel happier and short-circuit the stress response. So the next time you're feeling down or frustrated, make yourself smile for one minute— yes, a full 60 seconds. You have nothing to lose but a bad mood. You might even try practicing right now!

More on getting into a good mood...

• Happy at Last
• Bouncing Back from a Bad Mood
• Mood Changer
• Reduce Stress: Secrets to Staying Calm in a High-Stress World
• One-Word Secret to Happy Marriage

The next time someone cuts you off in traffic or is too slow starting up when the light turns green, send him or her a pleasant thought. Try I wish you happiness or May you be safe and healthy. This is an aspect of “loving kindness” meditation that can help to keep you calm and generate a feeling of compassion. Once you try this for a little while, you’ll have a whole new, softer outlook on your fellow travelers and a happier commute, and you’ll be a more relaxed driver!

More on the benefits of meditation...

• The Power of Compassion
• Why "TM" Is Making a Comeback
• The Power of a Personal Mantra
• Qigong for Beginners

Dinner dates are great, but they can be pricey. Why not plan a special breakfast at a favorite restaurant or cook up something special for you and your sweetie? Start the day together over scrambled eggs with salsa or chocolate chip–stuffed French toast. Couples who have at least one "date night" a week have better sex, according to the National Marriage Project. Pass the honey, honey!

More on keeping your relationship fresh and fun...

• How to Stay Together Forever
• Tasty Breakfasts to Go
• Good Relationships, Surprisingly Good for Your Health
• Have More Fun in Your Relationship

Parks can be a great source of all kinds of free exercise—running, swimming, hiking, fitness courses and so much more. Plus you'll soak up vitamin D from the sun and maybe even make some new friends. Bonus: Many studies link time spent in nature to better emotional health. You can find new nature preserves in your area through Google Maps or the National Wildlife Federation’s Nature Find at http://www.nwf.org/NatureFind.aspx.

Surprising ways to enjoy the great outdoors...

• National Parks You've Never Heard Of
• Go Glamping! Luxury Camping for Nature Lovers Who Don't Love Roughing It
• Night Hiking Can Be More Interesting Than Walking During the Day
• Nordic Walking Gives You a Great Workout