The Science of Happiness:
Health Story

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, July 16 and October 29, 2006

Show 318

Happiness, similar to depression, has biological effects on the body. Like a health tonic, happiness "increases circulation, the heart beats faster and blood pressure goes up initially," says Deborah Harbinson, a registered nurse and certified laughter leader. "Happy people have far less cortisol, a stress hormone. A sense of contentment and joy can boost the immune system and help sick patients so they are able to fight infections better," she adds. Happy people live longer. According to Dr. Carol Ryff, director of the Institute on Aging, "Those kinds of individuals have lower levels of cardiovascular risk, lower levels of blood pressure and lower levels of bad cholesterol." Studies show that happy people are more successful in relationships and jobs. Scientists feel some smiles are linked to genetics. "You can't directly try to be happy," says Christopher Peterson, a professor of psychology and author of, "Character Strengths and Virtues." But Christopher notes that what you can do with success are the things that will lead to happiness. He details in his book the five major traits of a happy person: hope, love, curiosity, zest, and gratitude. In other words it's not so difficult to make the most of good things and share gratitude with others.