Secrets of Happiness

Secrets of Happiness What do humans imply by happiness? It is a state of jollity, felicity, gaiety. Psychologists qualify happiness into two categories. Firstly there is hedonic happiness. This is nothing but short-term positive emotions like joy and excitement which are ephemeral in nature. Then there’s eudaimonic happiness, which focuses the human mind with long ranging outcomes and singular life satisfaction. It is noteworthy to mention that happiness research has been conducted with startling results in a wide variety of scientific disciplines, including gerontology, social psychology, clinical research and happiness economics. In the field of philosophy, happiness is translated from the Greek concept of eudemonia, which refers to an opulent life (though not in a negative sense of the term) or a flourishing, as against a short emotion or pleasure. The latter is merely a flow of electric current in the mind and body. These are momentary pleasures and do not really enhance the growth or development of one’s personality. Hormones which act as a trigger Researchers have zeroed in on four chemicals which are singular in shaping the happiness quotient among human beings. These are endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Endorphins Footslogging on the treadmill, going for long walks, pumping iron, doing regular yoga, swimming, aerobic exercises like Zumba or rhythmic dancing where humans burn out adequate number of calories sweating it out, all these activities lead to the release of endorphins. Humans savour and relish exercising for a couple of reasons. The assay assists us in not gaining weight, remaining fit, releasing toxins from the human body and significantly the process of discharge of endorphins makes human joyous by nature. Humans ought to spend a minimum of forty-five minutes physically exercising every day; a daily dose of reading or watching amusing material every day, these measures help to obtain the daily dose of endorphins. Dopamine Achievers are not quitters and get acknowledged for their accomplishments in life, both officially and among their dear ones in family circles. These are positive strokes which assist in the release of dopamine and ensure all-round happiness. Whenever humans receive positive strokes they feel a sense of deep fulfilment within the core of their hearts and this releases dopamine. The flip side is lack of positive strokes leads to unhappiness and general dissatisfaction. This could be the reason as to why several homemakers remain desultory and unhappy. They rarely get acknowledged or appreciated for their intense contribution in running a household. Do we recall Sridevi’s the sterling performance in the movie English Vinglish? Despite taking care of the family comprising of her husband, children and mother-in-law, her efforts were seldom recognised and she was perpetually chastised, constantly receiving barbs. Serotonin The third chemical, a natural mood regulator, is released when actions of humans benefit society at large. As the adage goes, “Service to mankind is equivalent to service to the Divine”. Humans transcend themselves and make a singular effort to return to society, nature and their fellow beings. This process is indeed spiritually uplifting and releases serotonin. These activities are usually beyond the ambit of our regular sphere of work. For instance an Art of Living teacher conducts courses such as the Happiness Programme (Anand Utsav) for people, or works among alcoholics and drug addicts to transfigure their lives which paves the way for their recovery towards a life of sobriety and rehabilitation. Such activity is extremely fulfilling and enriches their personality and empowers them to take on bigger challenges. The twin effect is that it metamorphoses the lives of the afflicted too. Oxytocin This is the substance which is released when we become close to other human beings. Humans transcend their covetous, mercenary and self-seeking nature when they drop inhibitions and without seeking any favour in return become close to fellow beings. In such a state nature from its womb bestows abundance. And abundance leads to the growth of consciousness and self-fulfilment. A hug is an act which is either frowned upon or evokes derision. But a simple hug without expecting anything in return establishes a deep connect with our fellow beings. During the process the chemical oxytocin is released. The Jadoo ki Jhappi from Munnabhai indeed conjures magic and dramatic positivity. This is the secret formula of spiritual Masters. Similarly, when we shake hands or put our arms around someone's shoulders, gargantuan amounts of oxytocin is released. So these are chemical substances working and operating in compartments and perhaps an individual gets a small dosage, like say in homeopathic treatment. This could also contribute to a feel-good factor. It is noteworthy to mention that the cerebellum is a significant part of the human brain. It is situated at the backside of the brain. By following regular sadhana of various spiritual practices, pranayama, yoga, meditation and the unique rhythmic breathing technique of Sudarshan Kriya the cerebellum releases efficacious thought process. “For every minute you are angry you lose sixty seconds of happiness,” wrote Ralph Waldo Emerson.