What is happiness and would you be able to define it? Generally, it is defined as a positive emotional state in which a person feels satisfied, content and fulfilled with his or her life. A straightforward definition, but in practice, it is not as accessible as it seems, since it involves different factors that sometimes do not depend on oneself.
Some of these factors are practically objective and the same for all people, since they are basic necessities for living. These needs have been identified through different psychological and sociological theories and approaches, and although they may vary according to culture and context, they are considered universal.
Physiological needs are the body’s basic needs, such as food, water, rest, and health.
Security needs, in order to be able to develop and be happy, such as financial security, job stability, safe housing, and protection of the law.
The need for belonging and love, such as feeling connected and appreciated by other people. Esto incluye la necesidad de relaciones significativas, el apoyo emocional y la sensación de pertenencia a una comunidad o grupo.
But happiness is also a subjective feeling and can be experienced in different ways by each individual. Some people may find happiness in close interpersonal relationships, while others may find it in professional or personal achievements.
It is important to keep in mind that happiness is not a permanent condition, as we all experience emotional ups and downs in life. However, actively seeking happiness and finding ways to cultivate it can have a positive effect on our overall health and well-being.
HOW TO ACHIEVE HAPPINESS THROUGH HEALTH?
Maintaining a healthy diet
A balanced and nutritious diet can improve mood and energy, which can help you feel happier and more motivated.
Exercising regularly
Physical exercise can release endorphins, which are hormones that make us feel good and happy. In addition, it can improve overall health and increase self-confidence.
Getting enough sleep
Adequate sleep can help reduce stress and improve mood. Good sleep can also improve memory, concentration, and decision-making, which can increase a sense of well-being.
Reducing stress
Chronic stress can be detrimental to mental and physical health. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing can help reduce stress and improve happiness.
Maintaining healthy social relationships
Close and meaningful relationships can increase the sense of well-being and reduce the risk of depression. Social relationships can be an important source of emotional and affective support. Therefore, it is important to maintain healthy and meaningful relationships with friends, family, and significant others.
Practice relaxation techniques
For example, meditation and mindfulness are techniques that help us to be present in the moment and reduce stress and anxiety. These practices can be very helpful in improving our mental health.
Seek professional help if necessary
If we are experiencing mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression, it is important to seek professional help. Therapists and psychologists can help us develop tools to better manage our emotions and improve our quality of life.
Cultivate activities that we enjoy and give us pleasure
It is important to set aside time to do things that we enjoy and that give us pleasure, such as reading, listening to music, and playing sports, among other activities that make us feel good and relaxed.
THE FOUNDATION OF HAPPINESS
Did you know the World Happiness Foundation? It is an international non-profit organization, based in Miami, with a delegation for Europe in Spain and members of the International Board of the UN Day of Happiness.
In the Foundation’s own words: “We are the most comprehensive and international global institution on happiness and well-being, housing and giving voice to leaders, institutions, and initiatives aligned with the realization of a world where all people are free, conscious and happy”.
A sustainable, ethical, and conscious organization that brings to society a positive message and an optimistic vision of the world. They share the UN’s #TenBillionHappyby2050 goal and to do so have estimated that 25 million change agents (educators, health professionals, business leaders, activists, and public officials) must positively impact at least 400 people in their lifetime.
The mission of the World Happiness Foundation is to extend this objective to all areas of society: companies, public institutions, and workers. One of the ways to achieve this goal is through the World Happiness Festival, which is the world’s largest, diverse, polycentric, and comprehensive forum of wellness and happiness experts, thought leaders, and change agents.