Health and happiness are deeply connected. Healthy people tend to be happier, and happy people often live longer. This connection creates a cycle where health supports happiness, and happiness improves health. This relationship might explain the long lives of people living on the island of Ikaria. In the article “Welcome to the Island Where People Forget to Die” by Dan Buettner, a 90-year-old resident of Ikaria says, “We just forget to die.” Their happiness and satisfaction with life seem to be the key to their long lives. Similarly, in the article “Six Ways Happiness is Good for Your Health”, Kira Newman writes, “The people who were more satisfied with life at the beginning were less likely to die.” Happiness helps extend life by boosting mental and physical health.
Activities like walking may also explain the link between health and happiness. In the article “How to Be Happy”, Tara Parker-Pope says, “More activity goes hand-in-hand with better health and greater happiness.” The more active you are, the healthier and happier you become. Korin Miller, in “11 Little Mental Health Tips That Therapists Actually Give Their Patients”, adds, “Getting regular exercise is important for mental health, but even just taking regular, relaxing walks can be soothing for your mind.” Walking can clear your mind, reduce stress, and improve lung health. Exercise not only strengthens your body but also boosts your mental well-being.
The Pursuit of Happiness
Happiness is a universal emotion. Everyone experiences it at least once in their lifetime. Happiness can feel like a reward, a peaceful moment, or a sense of satisfaction. While we all share this feeling, we do not all experience it in the same way. For some, even small gestures like a kind greeting or a helping hand can bring happiness. A simple hug might create joy for others. Ross Gay, in his writing, describes how unusual events, like boarding a plane with a tomato plant, can spark happiness.
Research shows that small actions, like walking or exercising, can trigger feelings of happiness. These actions not only make us happy but also improve our health. Many countries use these findings to create healthy and happy environments for their people. By focusing on health and happiness together, we can create a better and more fulfilling life.
