Scientifically proven: 4 simple things that make us happier

general practitioner

What makes people happier?

The good news is that in many cases stress can be managed. A little patience and a few helpful strategies can help you reduce your anxiety, whether it’s strained family relationships or problems at work.

There are quite a few studies that support the benefits of meditation. For example, yoga (which includes meditative practices) has been shown to reduce anxiety levels. This is probably due to both getting rid of unnecessary thoughts and physical activity.

Hugs

Scientists say: supporting another through touch can actually reduce stress. We are by nature social beings – by helping and comforting others, including hugging, we improve our own condition.

The production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter known as the “pleasure hormone,” plays an important role here. It produces a pleasant feeling of satisfaction, which helps to relieve tension. Hugging has also been found to increase the production of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone.” It lowers blood pressure and the “stress hormone” norepinephrine, it also allows you to make an emotional connection with others and encourages you to trust them.

This begs the question: with how many hugs a day are needed for optimal health? There should be as many as possible if we want to maximize the positive effects.

Chocolate

Cocoa solids are some of the richest sources of antioxidants. Stress provokes an imbalance of these substances in the body. Therefore, eating a piece of chocolate when you are sad is not such a bad idea.

The results of various studies prove that the level of stress is significantly reduced after eating dark and milk chocolate for two weeks. And it is mostly women who are affected.

Music combined with the sounds of nature helps one to feel less anxious. Even for people facing a critical illness.

Singing, it turns out, also relieves stress. A 2017 study measured the amount of cortisol in participants’ saliva before and after singing. It turned out that the levels of the “stress hormone” were lower afterward.