Introduction
The search for happiness is a universal desire that permeates the history of humanity. Philosophers, poets, religious people and scientists dedicated themselves to understanding this complex emotion, seeking to uncover its secrets and formulate recipes for a happy life.
Therefore, it is necessary to understand happiness from different perspectives, combining philosophy, neuroscience and psychology. To this end, the multifaceted nature of happiness was analyzed, going beyond mere joy and superficial positivity, and the elements that contribute to individual and collective well-being were investigated.
Philosophical views of happiness
Throughout history, different philosophers have offered different perspectives on happiness. For Aristotle, happiness consisted of the search for balance and harmony, the practice of good and the development of virtues. Kant defined it as the condition of the rational being in the world, while Nietzsche considered it something fragile and volatile, to be conquered through constant overcoming.
Furthermore, happiness is not about pure euphoria, but rather a state of mind in which the subject feels light, at peace and grateful, with an optimistic view of life. He realizes that he doesn’t need to be “in the clouds” all the time, but rather feel calm and open to observing the world with generosity. It is natural for feelings to fluctuate with everyday situations, but cultivating positivity and gratitude contributes to more constant happiness, even in the face of challenges.
Elements of Happiness
Happiness is not limited to a momentary state of euphoria, but rather to a set of factors that contribute to the individual’s general well-being. Among the elements that make up happiness, five types of well-being stand out:
- Emotional well-being: A balanced emotional state, with a predominance of positive emotions such as joy, gratitude and contentment.
- Relational well-being: Building healthy, positive relationships with family, friends, partners and community.
- Physical well-being: Taking care of the body, through regular physical exercise, adequate nutrition and quality sleep.
- Intellectual well-being: The ability to manage one’s emotions, deal with stress and build healthy relationships.
- Spiritual Wellbeing: The search for meaning, transcendence, and connection to something greater than oneself.
Neuroscience of happiness
According to happiness researchers Lyubomirsky, Sheldon and Schkade, 50% genetics, 10% external factors and 40% one’s own choices. In other words, half of the ability to be happy is already defined in the human being’s DNA, while the surrounding environment contributes only 10%. The big surprise is in the remaining 40%, which depends solely on the thoughts and actions of individuals. In other words, the power to cultivate happiness is in the hands of those who want it!
Thus, neuroscience, in turn, can offer the basis for brain mechanisms related to happiness. Studies reveal that there is no specific area of the brain responsible for happiness, but rather a complex network of regions that activate at different times. However, the limbic system, the control center for emotions, is fundamental to the experience of happiness.
Therefore, the human body is a happiness factory! Through simple actions, you can stimulate the production of four neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of well-being and joy and, consequently, feel happy.
Endorphins, a natural opiate, can be elevated by eating something spicy, watching a sad movie or simply dancing and singing happily. As for serotonin, which fights depression, it increases when remembering happy moments with friends or reviewing old photos, and the sun and aerobic exercise also contribute to its production.
Dopamine, the “mediator of pleasure”, is linked to motivation, love and passion. Setting short-term goals and achieving them releases this substance, increasing the feeling of achievement. Oxytocin, the emotional bonding hormone, is released when you give a hug or exchange gifts with loved ones, strengthening trust and connection in relationships.
Being or appearing happy in the age of technology?
The book History of Happiness , by author Peter N. Stearns, explores the roots and diverse influences that shaped the current concept of happiness. Stearns, a Harvard-educated historian and professor at George Mason University, is dedicated to unraveling different cultures through the history of emotions.
In an interview with Revista Galileu , he highlights the importance of understanding the different perspectives on happiness: “ We must look around the world and try to understand how these different views operate ”.
In this way, the search for happiness should not be confused with the need to appear happy at all costs. It is important to distinguish genuine happiness, which comes from within, from artificial happiness, which is based on unrealistic comparisons and expectations.
The culture of toxic positivity, which ignores negative emotions and pressures people to be happy all the time, can be harmful to mental health. It is important to recognize and accept the range of human emotions, including sadness, anger and frustration, as a natural part of life.
However, the digital era, with its innovations and challenges, also impacts the search for happiness. Excessive information and demands, constant social comparison on social media and the culture of toxic positivity can generate anxiety, depression and other mental health problems.
On the other hand, technology also offers tools for cultivating happiness, such as meditation, mindfulness and online therapy apps. The key is the conscious and balanced use of technologies, prioritizing authentic connection and building meaningful relationships.
Conclusion
Therefore, through the integration of philosophy, neuroscience and psychology, it was possible to understand the different aspects of happiness and formulate strategies to cultivate it throughout life.
It is important to recognize that happiness is not a permanent state, but rather a continuous process of search and adaptation. Different views on happiness, from philosophical perspectives to neuroscientific research, offer a comprehensive overview of this complex emotion.
When the brain mechanisms of happiness and the factors that contribute to individual and collective well-being are understood, the individual will be able to make conscious decisions to cultivate a happier and fuller life.
In the digital age, it is essential to be aware of the challenges and opportunities that technology offers in the search for happiness. The conscious use of digital tools, combined with the practice of activities that promote physical, mental and social well-being, are essential for building a happier and more meaningful life.
References
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