The Power of Positive Emotions

In the past, most people – including scientists – believe that our physical world shapes our brain and the way we think and feel. However, over the past 20 years or so, more and more scientific researches and studies have consistently showed that it is our mind that truly shapes our physical world.

Today, we know that how we think and feel affect our body biochemical changes, creating a cascade of chained reactions that begins with our thoughts and ends with real physical changes in our body, communicated and transmitted via our brain chemistry, hormones and neurotransmitters. When we think positively, we initiate positive changes to the body that strengthens our immune system, improve our blood pressure readings and reduces risks of a cardiac event. We even know now that physical neuronal changes occur in our brain. We literally rearrange our brain networks and connections through a phenomenon called neuroplasticity. You can refer to Candace Pert’s book entitled Molecules of Emotion for scientific data supporting the above.

Equally exciting are results of studies done by Barbara Fredrickson on the effects of positive emotions such as love, joy, inspiration and pride. She found that positive emotions improve our life at all levels – physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. People who are optimistic tend to broaden their outlook, increase creativity in dealing with challenges and are more resilient in facing setbacks. They are more likely to be healthier, happier and more contented.

Martin Seligman, who is considered a pioneer in positive psychology, said that those people who are happiest are those who use their signature strengths, such as humanity, temperance and persistence, and virtues for something much larger than they are. He combines the individual approach that emphasizes self care and nurture with the altruistic approach that demands sacrifice for the greater good.

Most interesting of all is the realization that while some people are generally born optimistic, being happy is a skill that everyone can learn. There are already many studies and social experiments that showed that positive emotions and attitudes can be consciously cultivated, practiced and mastered.

Now isn’t that a happy thought!