Nutritional Nuggets: Joy
by Pat Ellis
Moments of joy may seem like small things, but through a combination of neurological and physiological responses, they work to produce a powerful, beneficial impact on our health. Let’s look at a few as outlined in the “Science of Joy” by South Tabor family Physicians:
Joy boosts antibody production and enhances the activity of the killer cells that fight off infections, thus strengthening our immune system.
Joy, along with its cousins laughter and optimism, help reverse the damaging effects of cortisol caused by chronic stress by triggering the release of neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin.
Cardiovascular benefits of joy include lowering blood pressure as well as promoting better circulation.
Happiness fosters a sense of optimism and a sense of purpose. Over time, this helps build our mental resilience and fights off depression.
Joy, along with other positive emotions, calms our minds and promotes better sleep, thus enhancing our overall health and energy.
Studies such as those conducted by Song and Tay of Singapore’s Institute of Technology and Harvard Health, repeatedly show that people who intentionally cultivate happiness and gratitude not only tend to live longer but they do so with fewer chronic illnesses. They experience less pain, and if they are injured, they recover faster. Are we getting the picture? Joy is good for us!
Now, you may be agreeing, but also thinking that joy is becoming harder to find and often overshadowed by its big bully neighbors, stress and worry. Well, here is the good news: with intention, we can increase the levels of joy we experience and create a foundation for better physical and emotional well- being.
Here are some suggestions from the Mayo Clinic to get us started.
Practice gratitude: Taking a moment each day to reflect on a few things that we are thankful for offers benefits that can be further intensified by writing those thoughts down. The combination of the physical and cognitive processes of journaling creates a deeper and more lasting effect on our brains.
Spend time in nature: If you don’t spend much time outside, start going for a short walk, sit on your porch or in your yard, look at the stars on a clear night. If you are outside often, start noticing the beauty nature surrounds us with.
Stay connected to people you care about: Write a note or make a call because connecting with others strengthens our sense of well-being.
Intentionally engage in activities you enjoy: Hobbies like cooking, gardening, reading, listening to music, painting, or whatever interests you can create a focused joy that improves your overall well being.
Introduce joy: We all have opportunities to interact with strangers as we shop or bank or are served in a restaurant. Noting a person’s name, thanking them for service, or giving a sincere compliment can bring a bit of joy to them. These random acts of kindness are returned to us through a sense of well-being. The best way to feel good is to make others feel good.
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