Keep Learning: About Ways to Stay Happy and Healthy

12 THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

1. Most people have innate “happiness set points” that considerably influence their ability to be cheerful and optimistic.
2. Fifteen minutes of vigorous laughter burns up to 40 calories.
3. Scientists have recognized over a dozen types of smiles, including “amused,” “embarrassed,” “nervous” and “polite.”
4. According to research, Scandinavia is the happiest part of the world.
5. March 20 has been designated International Day of Happiness by the United Nations.
6. Growing older needn’t be depressing. Forty-one percent of Americans over age 65 consider themselves “very happy,” as opposed to just over 30% of adults under age 30.
7. The chemical compounds that produce the smell of flowers also elevate human mood and sharpen brain function. If you struggle with depression or chronic fatigue, it might help to pin a fresh flower on your collar or in your hair.
8. People who regularly practice generosity—through large actions or small—are physically and mentally healthier, live longer and enjoy stronger personal relationships. However, this applies only to generous acts done freely and not out of “obligation.”
9. Over 25% of doctor visits involve psychosomatic symptoms—pains or other physical complaints generated by stress rather than diagnosable illness. If you have chronic complaints your regular M.D. can’t link to any medical issue, talk to a therapist or psychiatrist.
10. The strength of your immune system goes up and down with your level of positive emotions.
11. A sedentary lifestyle kills as many people as does smoking. Experts recommend getting at least 20–30 minutes of brisk exercise each day.
12. Preparing most of your own meals, rather than eating in restaurants, can cut your risk of obesity in half.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

CNN Health news
This top news channel has archived hundreds of online articles on drug abuse and other health issues.

Daniel Plan
Faith-based health program emphasizing prayer, diet, fitness, purposeful living and good relationships. E-articles and books are available through the website.

Greg McKeown
Author of the bestselling Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, McKeown offers organized workshops on setting priorities and overcoming overload.

Gretchen Rubin
Author of The Happiness Project and other books on habits and attitude, Rubin has been published in more than 30 languages. She is also a popular blogger and podcaster, and has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

National Sleep Foundation
Adequate sleep is an essential element of both good physical health and sound judgment. The NSF website offers sleep-better hints and the latest on sleep research, as well as a directory for locating medical specialists.

Psychology Today
The top source of expertise and research on mental health. Website includes a searchable online directory of therapists, psychiatrists and support groups.

Prevention Magazine
Among the best-known and most comprehensive sources of practical information on looking after your health.

Sonja Lyubomirsky
Dr. Lyubomirsky literally wrote the book on happiness research, publishing The How of Happiness in 2007. Besides general hints on how to become a happier person, she offers insights on setting realistic, individual-specific happiness goals.

Washington Post, Health and Science page
The To Your Health section provides an e-newsletter signup link.

Weight Watchers
One of the better weight-management programs, Weight Watchers has evolved throughout its more than 50 years of existence. Today, it uses a multifaceted approach focusing on positive attitude, physical activity, healthy-but-not-restrictive eating and managing health for the long term. Weekly support groups are convenient to almost any location.

Whole Foods Market
Whether or not you fancy the grocery chain’s natural-but-expensive foods, their website is a great source of healthy recipes and eating suggestions.

YMCA
The famous organized-activities organization has over 10,000 U.S. campuses with child and adult programs focused on community development, physical activity and social responsibility. Its website’s News & Media page provides up-to-date information on healthy and wholesome activities.