How happiness affects health?

Our emotions, in general, affect our health.  It is becoming more commonly recognized that stress and the emotions associated with stress can hurt the body.  Just the same, happiness is an emotion that affects the body as well.

Happiness is associated with an increase in healthy hormones in the brain, hormones like serotonin and oxytocin.  When you are exposed to something that brings happiness to your brain, those hormones are being released.  For example, oxytocin is commonly referred to as the “love” hormone because it contributes to being loved.  So, something as simple as receiving or giving a comforting hug can release oxytocin and increase that feeling of happiness.  Happiness provides your brain with a sense of peace and safety; there is nothing in those moments causing direct harm, so you have not worry. 

When your brain feels that sense of happiness, the rest of your body will feel it, too; that sense of peace and safety will spread throughout you.  For example, if you are in a state of happiness, your heart does not need to pump an excessive amount of blood throughout your body, so your heart rate will be more regulated.  Prolonged elevated heart rates do have health risks, so this will most certainly positively affect your health.  Stress typically causes your body to have increase muscle tension and soreness, but with happiness, your muscle will be much more relaxed. 

In terms of our cognition, your thoughts will be more positive, which will contribute to a much more positive outlook.  Happiness contributes to things like optimism and helps to prevent the perseverance of automatic negative thoughts.  You are more likely to have better opportunities when you have a more optimistic outlook on things.

It is important to note that happiness cannot be experienced without the contrast of sadness.  There can be no light without the presence of darkness.  So, it is not to say that sadness should be avoided at all costs and only happiness matters.  But the strengths associated with happiness will help you to move through those moments of sadness.   And having those moments of happiness, even if only for a few moments, can be cherished and comforting to know that it will positively impact your health.