The Internet is full of happy advice for those experiencing anxiety, depression, and especially feelings of isolation. In a nutshell, don’t listen and trust them. The only folks you should be listening to and trusting are neuroscience experts. With years of extensive industry experience, they have and continue to study those gray blobs in your head – and have truly learned about what makes people happy.
According to UCLA neuroscience researcher, Alex Korb, there are a few simple ways to create an upward spiral of happiness in your life. We take a look at a few core elements from those that really have the answers:
1. Ask Important Questions When You are Feeling Down
There are times when our brains simply do not want us to be happy. This is due to negative stimuli and overwhelming information that can truly clutter and impact the mind. No truer is this then when it comes to feelings of shame or guilt. However, these feelings are common and can even stimulate the brain – and us – to take action against these feelings.
While a person should never worry too much – resulting in increased anxiety and tension – he or she can worry enough to try and get back on track. The most important thing is to ask questions, voice your worries, and understand that this is all part of life’s daily struggles, obstacles, and challenges. By recognizing your feelings, the rewards will come sooner than expected.
2. Be Grateful
Gratitude is a great and proven way to increase dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are essential in helping us feel good from within. However, what is it that we should be grateful for? There does not have to be any concrete answers to this question. In fact, it does not matter at all – what does matter is the searching we all do to feel great, happy, and appreciate everything we have in life.
3. Avoid but Label Negative Feelings
While we would all love to avoid negative feelings –that is not reality. The best way to combat negative feelings is simply to label them; sadness, anxiety, anger, etc. Brain science show that by labeling these feelings – and making decisions – we can all alleviate unnecessary stress and feel at rest. This technique also helps us feel more connected to our minds, bodies, and especially the environment.
4. People need People
No man is an island. In order to be happy, people need other people to feed their need for socialism. Studies show that the longer a person stays alone, the lonelier he gets. The harder it is to stay positive and eventually resurface from the sadness that engulfs him.
