“A happy heart is good medicine, and a cheerful mind works healing.”
This proverb was written by Solomon around 900 B.C. Today, there is increasing scientific research corroborating this truth. Happiness has a positive impact upon your health— physically, mentally and emotionally.
It is estimated that Americans feel happy approximately 54% of the time, neutral 25% of the time and unhappy 21% of the time. After review of the “happiness” research, Dr. Martin Seligman in his book Authentic Happiness concluded that happy people:
- are healthier.
- use their intelligence more efficiently.
- are more creative.
- are more optimistic.
- have more fulfilling social relationships.
Mounting scientific evidence suggest that happiness is as powerful a predictor of health and longevity as cigarette smoking, diet and physical activity. Apparently, happiness has a protective effect on the various biological systems in the human body because the regions of the brain associated with happiness are also associated with blood vessel function and inflammation.
Positive “happiness” health benefits include:
- younger hearts.
- younger arteries.
- quicker recovery from surgery.
- increased pain tolerance.
- lower blood pressure and risk for cardiovascular disease.
- longer life expectancy (estimated 7.5 years).
- lower stress-related hormones.
- stronger immune system.
- motivates one to be more actively involved in health maintenance— exercise, wearing sunscreen, regular health checkups.
Yes, laughter is good medicine for what ails you. So, take your medicine and watch this video.
Thanks for listening to my voice! Feel free to like and share it with your friends.
Have a great day! Rita
Be the VOICE heard amidst the deafening sound of sameness!
This post reminds me of a line from Eat, Pray, Love. Ketut says…..”smile with your liver” 😀
I think this is an universal truth found in all the major religions and new age philosophies. Have a great day!
Gee, I hope they didn’t kill the mouse. It was probably more terrified from the high-pitched screams!
Nice post, Rita.
No, the mouse was released back into the wild where I hope an owl or coyote had a nice meal. Not a fan of mice! Have a marvelous Monday Michael!