Over the last couple of decades, there has been a growing body of scientific research connecting happiness to physical health and overall well-being. Much of this research has come from the emerging field of Positive Psychology, a branch of psychology with a slightly different focus than other psychological research.
Historically, psychology has focused on understanding and offerings remedies for anxiety, depression, fear, stress, and other mental states and disorders that contribute to a sense of unhappiness. Positive psychology seeks to examine the benefits and causes of positive emotions, compiling a body of research that helps us understand the traits and conditions that lead to happiness.
Today, there is a considerable amount of research that offers strong evidence that positive emotions have a significant impact on physical health, resulting in a higher-quality, healthier, and longer life. What does this mean for health care professionals focused on active aging and senior living? Let’s take a deeper look at the research to find out.
What does ‘happiness’ mean?
Like many other components of mental and emotional health, happiness is largely subjective. Even so, it is possible to measured and study the concepts around what it means to be happy. Most happiness research is focused on four primary points of study:
Personal well-being: Research that focuses on personal well-being examines subjective experiences of joy, contentment, and a sense that one’s life is meaningful and “good”.
Happiness traits: Optimism, enthusiasm, humor, gratitude and a sense of hope for the future.
Positive emotions: Experiential, fleeting, in-the-moment feelings such as happiness, love, joy, excitement, and contentment.
The physical sensation of being happy: What does happiness feel like? How does sensory experience provide enjoyment and enrich our lives?
Explanation:
