Happiness, Happy Hormones, Moods

Do you agree with this statement : People spend a lifetime searching for happiness. I guess it differs with each individual. Happiness, Happy Hormones and Moods are all correlated and attaining happiness is the ultimate pursuit of humans.

What is Happiness

What really is the definition of happiness? Happiness is used in the context of mental or emotional states which include positive or pleasant emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. Most commonly described as anything from the feeling of joy, tranquillity, a state of attunement, a sense of accomplishment. It is an endorsement of life – the feeling that life is positively good.

What is Happiness to me?

We all have different and personal definitions of happiness.

I personally feel happiness comes from within and it is a choice and I refuse to alow the let downs of Life or grief take over for too long. Choosing to move forward and doing the things that make me happy help me break the cycle of negativity. As I get older, I realise what I used to find happiness in, in the past is no longer the same anymore. Sharing quality time with the people who care about me and who I care about….this is what happiness is to me these days. I think I talk and communicate over the internet more and it’s almost on a daily basis.

The Science of Happiness

The science of happiness is a combination of 2 things.

1. How satisfied you are with your life
2. How good you feel on a day to day basis.

Our thoughts, actions and behaviours control our state of happiness. Circumstances in life and genes also play a big role. Happiness is a skill that we can build with consistent practice. You have the ability to control how fulfilling your life is.

Happy Hormones

Hormones are chemicals produced by different glands across your body. They travel through the bloodstream, acting as messengers and playing a part in many bodily processes like helping to regulate your mood. There are 4 hormones that are known to help promote positive feelings, including happiness and pleasure. Happy hormones are increased when we perform certain actions such as hugging, kisssing, having sex, eating our favourite foods, exercising, celebrating little wins, playing with a baby or a pet, going out into the sun and so on. Happiness, Happy Hormones and Moods go hand in hand.

Happy people are Healthier

1. They have lower rates of cardiovascular disease.
2. They have better immunity
3. Heal faster after injuries
4. They are more likely to have healthier diet
5. Live Longer

Happiness is not just about You.

In my opinion, happinesss is definitely not feeling hunky dory all of the time or refusing to see the negative things happening in the world. It definitely is not all the money you could ever want and not a final destination either. Happiness is a journey through life. Happy people are more productive at their jobs and have typically deep relationships with others. They are the ones who are more likely to help others and volunteer more, give money to charity and are more creative problem solvers.

To sum it all up, we can increase our happiness over time by nurturing relationships, having new experiences, helping others and being grateful for what we have. Happiness and learning how to be happy is vital for our mental health. To feel connected and have purpose in life is the key to our well being. People of all ages report being happier when they have more meaning in their lives.

References :

1. NHS : How to be Happier
2. Oxford University – Happiness : the state of Mind
3. Wikipedia