Being Happy is Healthy

Being Happy is Healthy

Emotions are like a roller coaster. Sometimes you’re up, sometimes you’re down; sometimes you’re upside down for a minute, then right side up the next. Normally, when people achieve their goals, their outlook on life is bright and cheery. They explode with positive emotions. However, when disappointment and frustration comes their enthusiasms dampen in a flash.

Try to remember the last tragedy that happened to you. Reflect on what it was and what your emotions were at that time. How did you feel the following day? How did you feel a week later? How did you feel after a month? Now repeat the exercise, but think of a wonderful event instead. How long did the happiness from the moment last? Think about this - why do you sulk longer than you shine?

It’s because as we achieve more accomplishments and material possession, we tend to lift our expectations up a notch. We ask for greater accomplishments or more money. We are no longer satisfied with what we have. This applies to the rich and the poor.

Studies show wealth does not equate to happiness. However, being happy is similar to being healthy.

Too much stress can make you unhealthy. Living in the 21st century led to a technologically advanced way of life, but we still experience stress through our anxieties. We are anxious with financial worries, job/career issues etc., as a result we eat and sleep less. All to often, we are not in a healthy mental disposition; this affects our professional and personal lives. When we are anxious, there is a tendency to be impatient with those around us.

The choices we make each day affect our whole outlook on life. Healthy habits are necessary for good health. Health and happiness are related and they affect each other. Good feelings can come from simple pleasures. Anything you enjoy doing, when done, makes you happy.

Senses of contentment, belonging, and purpose also bring happiness. Our attitude toward life in general, and the satisfaction we get, contribute to our happiness and health. When we are satisfied and are able to accomplish our goals and dreams, then we are happy.

We get an additional boost of confidence when we receive positive feedback on our efforts. Constructive criticism brings into our attention what we should work on for improvement. It is necessary that we receive feedback even if it weren’t given on a regular basis.

As we work hard, we should also play hard. Involve yourself in the community and keep in touch with your network of friends. This too can contribute to maintaining good health.

There are some people who possess the “No Worries” attitude when dealing with life. They are usually optimistic and generally see the glass half-full, rather than half-empty. They live in the present, and are not stuck on the past. They accept that the past can’t be changed. They don’t worry about the future either. They do know that the present shapes the future and that’s why they seize the day.

With this open attitude, it is easier to meet new people, have new ideas, and gain new experiences. Happiness is all about living in the moment, being optimistic, and accepting what is. From there, you can feel healthier and ready to face life’s challenges.

When you find happiness in your life, the whole body chemistry is affected and the bodily systems function well. There’s more time for family and friends, lessening the stress from work. If you’re an animal lover, playing with your pet (dog or cat) can relax you more.

You can also make time for a vacation. Research, done at the State University of New York at Oswego and the University of Pittsburgh, show that those who take annual vacations are 20 percent less likely to die in the next nine years. Vacation is a remedy for stress.

In a nutshell, doing things that you enjoy can be a great way to have a fulfilling and healthy life.

Until next time…

Charles