The Intersection of Health and Happiness
I have been wanting to research and write about this topic for a while. It is so important. Yes, there is a strong connection between health and happiness. Some would say they are the two sides of the same coin. Let’s explore how true that is.
Two thousand years ago the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, said “Happiness is the meaning and purpose of life, whole aim and end of human existence.”
I think we would all have some level of agreement, although I am a little weirded out about the “end of human existence” part.
And now, 2,000 years later, emerging research shows that being happy is more than just a dopamine fix. It can actually provide a host of heath benefits.
According to one recent study, happiness promotes a wide range of lifestyle healthy habits:
47% more likely to eat better
33% more likely to be physically active
53% more likely to have restful sleep
Other studies have found evidence that happiness is associated with lower risk of coronary disease, stroke, diabetes, and overall mortality. Happy people are less likely to die. Time to get my smiley face goin’.
More good news -
The symbiotic relationship between health and happiness works both ways. Yep, good health can make us happier. Although many factors influence our happiness, research suggests our physical health is a leading contributor. Physical health regulates how we feel, the amount of energy we have, and allows for positive hormone levels, all providing a positive sense of well-being.
As it turns out, our physical and mental/emotional health rely on many of the same biological processes. Our muscles, brain and, ultimately, our emotions, use the same cells for their respective function. If our mitochondria is compromised, we lack energy and motivation which generally leads to unhappiness.
For the big and expected finish… Our lifestyle habits provide much of the underlying biology that form the foundation of the partnership between health and happiness. Let’s add health span to this love party for more fun. What lifestyle habits you ask? You didn’t ask, because you already know. A little motivation from Nike for us all- Just Do It!
Enjoy your day,
Just a little extra-
As I researched this topic, a thought came to mind. This connection between health and happiness is kinda like a spinning circle, which could be good or bad depending on which way the circle is spinning. Please allow me to explain.
Bad lifestyle habits can cause negative effects in someone’s biology leading to low energy, messed up mitochondria, inflammation and generally poor health. That can then lead to anxiety having more negative effects on hormones, more inflammation, declining health and possible chronic disease.
Maybe the best way to reverse this direction? Go for a walk. Some small step to start reversing the current cycle. Follow up with adding a few healthy foods, good sleep, and maybe the elimination of an unhealthy habit. Once we reverse direction, it is amazing how happiness (well-being) can become more available.
A bit oversimplified. But a thought to consider, and a good place to start.
References
Grover, Sean. April 1, 2024. 5 Essential Healthy Habits for a Happier Life. Psychology Today
Buettner, Dan. The Link Between Happiness and Health. Bruezones.com
Exploring the Link Between Health and Happiness. Cornell University Evidenced Based Living