Secret to happiness: One simple habit can change your life
What you should do to be happy (Photo: Freepik)
Winter can be a difficult time for many people, as seasonal affective disorder develops. This depression is triggered by cold, shorter days, but it can be avoided with one simple thing, according to BestLife Online.
What to do
The American Psychiatric Association has reported a negative mood change in winter that provokes feelings of depression. Getting out of this state may not be easy, but there are small things you can do to feel happier.
According to a study conducted by researchers from Brigham Young University, weekly acts of kindness can increase happiness and have a positive impact on mental and emotional health.
Scientist Julianne Holt-Lunstad found that helping others brings more benefits to the person performing the act of kindness. Specifically, it reduces loneliness, social isolation, and anxiety.
"I think one of the most profound results of this study is that we measured the person providing the help - doing the acts of kindness. They are the ones that benefited," the report says.
Study details
In his experiment, Lundstad worked with 4,000 participants from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Participants provided emotional support, shared information, or simply communicated with others.
Australian participants reported a reduction in stress levels. They also contributed to better communication and social relationships with their neighbors.
The British group experienced an improvement in mood, avoided loneliness, and reported the importance of communication.
"By helping others, you’re in essence helping yourself," explained Holt, noting that simple acts of kindness can benefit both parties.
Acts of kindness don't have to be grand gestures. They can be small or large. It is completely free and can be done by anyone without any preparation.
American scientists consider volunteering one of the key components of a healthy lifestyle. Researchers have found that free voluntary help to others:
- reduces the risk of developing depression;
- helps find one's purpose in life;
- helps stay physically and mentally active;
- lowers stress levels;
- extends life;
- helps create and develop new relationships with people.
Earlier, we reported on what to do every day for longevity and improving health.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
