10 Tips for Greater Happiness: OZY’s 100

There are different types of communication that humans use when we talk to our significant others. Of course, some methods can vary in impact. And one method in particular is the most effective — particularly if you’re looking to change your partner’s behavior (and, frankly, who isn’t?). So the next time you want help with the dishes or your significant other to pick up their socks, avoid the temptation to go the snarky route and encourage them with proactive words. Here’s how …

You know that kids need extra Zs but maybe you don’t know how really life-changing they could be. A study out of the University of Kentucky showed that starting school an hour later led to improved performances and boosted attendance rates. Changes to school schedules may not happen overnight but the data certainly gives educators — and parents — something to sleep on.

You do it constantly without thinking, but it’s time to take note. Breathing correctly can go a long way toward easing stress and anxiety, and most people are doing it wrong, says breathing expert James Nestor. You’re probably breathing too deeply and not using your nose enough. One trick to get on the right track? Humming for five minutes a day, which increases your nitric oxide intake, improving your mood, circulation and more.

We often hear that “less is more.” Turns out, there’s a morsel of truth in the saying — at least when it comes to food. And now scientists — not just fancy chefs and culinary snobs — have proved it. If you want to enjoy your wine or your meal more, take it slow and small. Avoid overindulgence, and you’ll take greater pleasure from what you’re ingesting, researchers have found. That’s almost counterintuitive to practices in many popular, less chic eateries — and even in our own homes: Think massive food-centric celebrations, whether a big, fat Greek wedding or Thanksgiving dinner.

Few people are more vilified than smokers today. Cigarettes can cause cancer and stoners, supposedly, get little done. But a study from the Center for Brain Health at the University of Texas looked at the effect of smoking on memory, and the results were shocking. The study involved groups of participants that were separated based on their type of smoking habit — cigarettes, marijuana, both or neither — and they found those who abstained from both substances for a prescribed period and then smoked weed at least four times a week and 10 cigarettes a day showed the greatest improvement in their memory.

Depriving a kid of an occasional indulgence can result in overindulging when Mom’s not around. So rather than tell children that cake is evil and happiness is a handful of quinoa-and-flax chips, top scientists are now saying you should teach them about moderation instead. So let Junior have his cake — just not every day.

From the engagement ring to a blowout bridal party and custom-designed website chronicling the happy couple’s road to the altar, it should come as no surprise that the average price of a wedding has hit an all-time high of $30,000 (honeymoon not included). But you might be startled to learn that the more the bride and groom shell out for their big day, the shorter the marriage. In fact, say the experts, for the best odds of long-term marital success, you should look to spend less than $1,000.