THRIVE
The power of viral joy
Sometimes all it takes to
invoke pure joy is to watch someone else in that same state. Whether you see
your friend laughing at a TV commercial or your child uncontrollably giggling
at a dog, these moments will warm your heart, lift your spirits and just for a
moment, make you forget about life's worries.
Joyous laughter is a human experience. It's also good for us. Scientific
studies reveal this kind of
laughter calms cardiovascular stress and produces a state of calm after the convulsive movements accompanying the laugh.
When we perceive joy from others, it can be contagious and
trigger joy in us. We then carry that feeling of joy and are often more likely
to share and connect with others to build social networks.
Plus, smiling and being joyful provide positive health
benefits. Smiling relaxes the facial muscles and calms the nervous system.
Laughing sends more oxygen to the brain and that triggers the release of endorphins, or brain chemicals
that help us feel positive. Laughing can also lower
blood pressure, relieve stress and boost mood.
Next time you're feeling down, think about how you can increase
your capacity for joy every single day—and never underestimate the power of
unadulterated joy. It's beyond infectious.
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Simple coloring can be meditative, challenging and relaxing. Scientific research shows that when you're involved in something repetitive and mindful, like coloring, your brain changes. You're more focused, calm and feel as though you can make good decisions. There is a similar physiological response in people who practice mindfulness or a formal meditation practice where breathing becomes deeper and the heart rate slows down. Here are a few more reasons you may want to pick up your crayons to relax:
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