From Happier to Healthier

Early in the pandemic, Susan completed a seven-day meditation series focused on gratitude. She spent less than 20 minutes a day using the app on her phone, but still felt a difference. Even though life was overwhelming due to responsibilities for her family, work commitments and the sudden lifestyle change imposed by the pandemic, Susan was noticing the positive that she might have otherwise overlooked: the warmth of the sun as she walked to her car, the breeze on her cheek when she checked the mailbox, the fluffiness of the clouds when she took her dog out. These moments—mere seconds—helped Susan feel stronger as her focus returned to her busy day. She wondered if there was a way she could help her young son Adam notice the little things that make him happy.

What is happiness?

In North America, happiness is often associated with finances and the pursuit of material wealth. While financial security can reduce stress and therefore lead to better health, buying the latest smartphone or a bigger house does not affect a person’s happiness.

When thinking about what happiness means to you, it may be helpful to reframe it as contentment, optimism or a positive outlook.

The physical benefits of happiness

An optimistic perspective is associated with many health benefits including a stronger immune system, better heart health, and faster recovery times following illnesses or surgery. Happiness may even lead to living longer!

While there are health benefits to happiness, researchers emphasize that individuals should not be blamed for poor health.

What can you do to increase the happiness in your life?

Some research suggests that a positive perspective can lead people to engage in a healthier lifestyle that includes exercise, good sleep habits, socializing and a balanced diet. There are also many things that we can do to improve our outlook or happiness, and, in turn, have a positive impact on our health.

Socialize

Spending quality time with family and friends can foster feelings of well-being and a sense of safety. Whether it is a biological family or chosen family, they form an important social network that provides support whenever there are challenges in life. Equally important are the ways we give back to our families—we derive pleasure and positive feelings when we help our loved ones.

Connect with Nature

Spending time in nature—a walk in the park, a daytrip to a cottage, or gardening in your backyard—can foster happiness. In fact, in some places in North America, doctors are recognizing the significant role access to the natural world plays in maintaining good health and now prescribe park passes to encourage patients to get outside and enjoy the outdoors.

Practice Mindfulness

A recent blog post discussed mindfulness and how it can help improve or maintain mental health. The incredible thing about using this practice to be present in the moment is that it can also strengthen physical health and resilience.

Researchers aren’t sure why focusing on the present leads to a more positive outlook, but it consistently does. We have to plan for the future and sometimes process the past, but don’t let these things prevent you from savoring your coffee, appreciating the sound of laughter or fully feeling the warmth of a hug from a loved one.

Participate in Physical Activity

Exercise—even a small amount—causes an increase in several brain chemicals that support feelings of happiness, confidence and capability while also reducing anxiety, stress and even physical pain.

Get Creative

You might have an interest in painting, playing an instrument or dancing—explore this interest. These are all ways to express yourself and self-expression is important to happiness. These artistic pursuits also encourage you to exist in the moment—you can’t be ticking off items on your to-do list when you’re immersed in a brushstroke, hitting the right note, or responding to music with grace. If you have not been making time for creativity because it seems to be a waste of time or overindulgence, reframe your thinking—this might strengthen your immune system, protect your heart and let you live a longer, fuller life.

When you have some time, give thought to what might foster joy or a more balanced outlook in your life. The key is that this should not become another thing you have to do. Let this be an enjoyable process.

Four-year-old Adam is in his pajamas and the bedtime story has been read. He is snuggled in with his teddy bear and almost ready for sleep. Then he reminds his mom, “We haven’t said what we’re thankful for today.” Susan and Adam had recently incorporated something new in their nightly routine: they spend a moment reflecting on their days and telling each other something they are grateful for. Susan is usually tired and most days it slips her mind, but she is thankful Adam has taken the practice to heart and she hopes he will continue to pause—for just a moment in the day—to notice the positive.

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