Think Happiness Simply Happens?
Many people believe that their happiness or contentment is reliant upon their circumstances. This couldn't be farther from the truth! Did you know that you can actually "train your brain" to be happy?
Neuroscientists and researchers are discovering more and more which parts of the brain affect various functions like speech, memory, vision, lanuguage, and emotion. An interesting article in Psychology Today explains new findings that feelings of happiness and contentment are actually a result of heightened brain activity in the left prefrontal cortex, and reduced activity in the right prefrontal cortex.
"Both fun and social interaction impact the function of the brain. Enjoying pleasurable activities, doing something that seems to make time stand still, spending time with loved ones, pursuing meaning in its many forms, and celebrating accomplishments stimulate the activity in your left prefrontal cortex," Psychologist, Dr. Bill Conklin explains. In fact, Dr. Conklin has based the past 15 years on the practice of encouraging brain activity in the left prefrontal cortex of his patients as a form of therapy.
Research has shown that there is a correlation between the way we use our thoughts to influence our emotions, not simply vice versa. In other words, if you "think" positive thoughts, stimulating activity in the left prefrontal cortex, your brain will actually release the biochemical response that would naturally happen if you were actually experiencing a situation in which you were happy! You CAN trick your brain into thinking happiness, making you actually FEEL happy!
It's amazing the power we have, the power of the mind, and tapping into it in a positive way each day can help you realize that you CAN choose happiness in your everyday life and circumstances, and you don't have to be controlled by negative situations around you. Wow, imagine the freedom in that!
