by Parmjit Singh, PhD
Being or becoming happy not only affects the quality of our emotional and family life, it also promotes health. A recent study published in the Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) claims that “positive well-being is directly related to health-relevant biological processes”.
“Negative affective states such as depression are associated with premature mortality and increased risk of coronary heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, and disability”.
Therefore, it is a worth the undertaking to cultivate positive life experiences. They not only add color and spice to the living but also can be potent protectors against deadly life-style killers of our times.
TIPS TO CULTIVATE HAPPINESS:
• Try to find the root cause of your unhappiness and confront it.
• Do not run away from negative emotions, understand them.
• Cultivate a compassionate attitude.
• Live a moderate life.
• Do not compare yourself with others.
• Do not seek happiness in the outside world. Turn inward and you will find that it was always there—you just forgot about it while looking outside.
For more information, read:
Steptoe, A. et al (2005). Positive affect and health related neuro-endocrine, cardiovascular, and inflammatory processes. Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), 102 (18), 6508-6512