Four lessons the happiest country in the world can teach us as US falls to lowest rank ever

For the eighth year running, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world in new rankings published today.Based on the World Happiness Report‘s data, they’re leaps and bounds happier than the US, which dropped to 24th place — the lowest ever.What makes Finland markedly happier than even its Nordic neighbors is down to a mix of factors — but the Finns themselves attribute their superior well-being to a few things they do differently.Coming in just after Finland are Denmark, Iceland, Sweden and the Netherlands.Rounding out the top 10 are Costa Rica, Norway, Israel, Luxembourg and Mexico.The US was also beat out by Ireland, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and the UK — though it edged ahead of France, Brazil, Spain, Italy and 119 others.The rankings were based a combination of factors, including GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, perception of corruption and the freedom to make life choices.But according to Finnish people, there are a few things they do better.Finland is known for its dark Arctic winters during which the country only gets six hours of sunlight per day — a phenomenon that they deal with by indulging in cozy comforts like tea, warm fires and thick blankets.

But they are rewarded with endless daylight in the summer — giving the country the nickname “Land of the Midnight Sun.” The Finns certainly take advantage of this brief boost of sunlight, and it almost certainly has a positive impact on their well-being.Research has shown that sunlight increases your brain’s production of serotonin — the hormone that regulates your mood — as well as vitamin D — which is crucial for your bones, your immune system and your mind.Saunas are a big part of Finnish culture, with some estimates saying there are over 3 millions saunas in the country — which is quite a lot for a population of only 5.5 million.

To sauna the Finnish way, you have to sweat it out in a room that’s 212 degrees Fahrenheit,...