Joy in the trees — a happiness walk
A happiness walk tomorrow at 12 noon will celebrate both joy and the power of trees. Research suggests that trees support mental health, helping reduce anxiety and stress while providing a natural mood boost.
International Happiness Day is celebrated annually on March 20. The United Nations established the day to highlight happiness and well-being as universal human goals. The day centers on mental health, compassion and social connection, often through forums and events linked to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
March 21 is the International Day of Forests, dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of all forests and of trees growing outside them. Forests have been a central topic of global conversation since the adoption of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement.
Happiness and the power of trees
A happiness walk tomorrow at 12 noon will celebrate both the joy of the season and the power of trees. Research shows that trees support mental health: whether you walk through a forest or just look at them through a window, they can reduce anxiety and stress and improve your mood. Urban trees are essential for human happiness.
The walk begins at Fógetagarðurinn and ends at the University of Iceland.
"Joy-giver" Edda Björgvinsdóttir leads the walk alongside Ingrid Kuhlman and Margrét Leifsdóttir, with generous support from Björk Þorleifsdóttir of the Reykjavík Botanical Garden.
The route winds through central Reykjavík, with stops at historic and remarkable trees along the way. Throughout the walk, participants will have moments to pause, breathe, listen and simply enjoy — discovering happiness even in the middle of the city. Please dress for the weather. All events are free to attend.
Happiness forum at the University of Iceland
The walk finishes at the University of Iceland. At 1 p.m., an engaging forum on the relationship between social media and happiness will begin in the University of Iceland's Ceremonial Hall.
The forum will examine the challenges of today's digital world and how technology can be used to support happiness and well-being.
The forum features a diverse lineup of talks and panel discussions. The happiness forum concludes with a cheer led by Edda Björgvinsdóttir.
Come celebrate happiness with us at these fun events on International Happiness Day.
Everyone is welcome.