Overview

• The Yellow Day concept was introduced in 2005 by psychologist Cliff Arnall using a formula that factors in outdoor activity, social connection, positive memories, temperature and holiday proximity.
• Major contributors to elevated mood include increased sunlight, pleasant summer weather and the proximity of school holidays.
• Specialist Sara Márquez highlights how cultural expectations and an emotional license to celebrate summer can amplify positivity, though she cautions that not everyone feels uplifted.
• Simple rituals such as mindful outdoor walks, journaling and intentional pauses help individuals harness the day’s mood boost.
• The United Nations’ World Happiness Report ranks Finland as the happiest country globally and places Spain 38th in Europe based on factors like social support and healthy life expectancy.