Research developed by university scholars in the United Kingdom indicates nine practices capable of increasing happiness levels for up to two years
Is there a formula for happiness? The answer is yes, and not us, but researchers at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom. And, according to scholars, talking to strangers in different environments is one of the “secrets” that make up this formula.
The study shows that you can learn to be happier
It all starts in 2018, when the University of Bristol launches a course called “Science of Happiness”, the first of its kind in the UK. The goal of this somewhat unusual degree course is to study feelings of joy and contentment from the perspective of psychology and neuroscience.
Six years after the start of the course, University researchers publish a study in the March issue of the scientific journal High school education, which collects the conclusions on the contents and applications of the course “The Science of Happiness”. Research has shown that yes, it is possible, through certain practices, to learn to be happier.
Research has shown that consistently performing the practices suggested in this level increases personal well-being by 10% to 15%. The results, according to the study, can last two years. The conclusions of the scientific work were obtained after analyzing 228 students of the course in question, who used the suggested methods in class.
How to be happier?
There are 9 activities suggested in the “The Science of Happiness” course and subsequently highlighted in the study, which help us achieve higher levels of happiness. We see:
- Talking to strangers;
- Giving gifts to other people;
- Have good quality sleep;
- Walk in nature;
- Perform acts of kindness;
- Practice meditation;
- Pay attention to what positive happens every day;
- Practicing physical activity;
- Practice gratitude.
Bruce Hoodpsychologist, philosopher specialized in developmental cognitive neuroscience and author of the study, states that following the nine activities is a suggestively continuous practice.
“It’s like going to the gym, we can’t expect that attending a class is a guarantee of always being in shape. As with physical health, we must continually work on mental health, otherwise improvements are temporary. Practice makes perfect”says Bruce Hood.
Optimism increases life expectancy and loneliness damages the immune system: these are the other two conclusions drawn at the end of the research.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
