This morning, feeling extremely happy, I wanted to share that feeling by blogging about it. However, a friend of mine has already written a wonderful and short article on the Science of Happiness which I will borrow from the Inner Wave newsletter, Issue 9 (
The Science of Happiness, by Dr. Prashant Kakoday
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once said:
"Happiness is the meaning and purpose of
life, the whole aim and end of human
existence." Scientists today have also begun
to recognise its importance. So, what can
science tell us about happiness?
Many observations are contrary to commonly
held beliefs. For example, wealth beyond a
certain basic minimum doesn’t lead to happiness.
In fact, it’s been found that the happiest
are those who’ve discovered their own
strengths and virtues and use them for the
greater good.
Studies show a significant link between good
works and psychological wellbeing.
Motivated volunteers are happier, regardless
of personal circumstances. The link between
exercise and happiness is also recognised. In
some studies, regular exercise was shown to
be just as effective as anti-depressants.
There are also some insights into the chemistry
of happiness. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter,
plays a major role in our experience of
happiness - high levels of it within the
synapses are associated with a feeling of
wellbeing. Conversely, most people with
depression have low serotonin levels. If we
artificially raise the level of seratonin, the
body responds by lowering its natural
production. As a result, the ‘resting level’
goes down – when the external boost wears
off.
Things like coffee, chocolates and cigarettes
all artificially raise serotonin but with long
term ‘boom and bust’ results. The same can
happen with TV, Internet, sex, music, alcohol
and violence. A lack of serotonin leads to a
loss of self-control and increases negative
feelings like anger. By rediscovering our inner
source of happiness and freeing ourselves
from even one main dependency, we can
begin to raise our own serotonin levels.
Studies show that for many, one key relationship
in life is often the key source of happiness.
On the other hand, broken relationships
are the biggest cause of unhappiness. As
with other dependencies, we can use another
person like a drug: our serotonin level
becomes linked to the presence or absence
of that person.
So is there a formula for happiness? May I
suggest:
Happiness = Truth / Desire.
The fewer desires you have, the happier you
will be. Having the right information (truth)
leads to contentment. Having the right understanding
of the self, our purpose, our origins
and our true relationships should free us from
the cycles of boom and bust and lead society
to that ultimate happiness.
Dr Prashant Kakoday is a medical doctor,
who has been studying Raja Yoga meditation
for over 20 years. He co- rdinates Brahma
Kumaris activities in Cambridge and lectures
around the world on topics ranging from
science and consciousness to the holistic
principles of life and health.
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