Daily " JOY HOUR"

There are many scientific studies which document the way in which our bodies register and store ALL our emotions.  Every emotion has a corresponding effect on our bodies.  The body does not lie.  It records and stores all our reactions, good or unpleasant.   Worry can create physical conditions like ulcers, hair loss, and weight gain.  JOY, however, supports the heart, boosts our immune system, helps reduce stress, counteracts pain, promotes a healthier lifestyle and can extend life expectancy.
 

​In a Healthline (an on-line Health Publication) article published on August 21, 2018, Carrie Murphy interviewed Diana Samuel, MD, an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University Medical Center, in which Dr. Samuel stated, “The brain does not have a single emotional center, but different emotions involve different structures.” 
 
She went on to explain, “Your frontal lobe (commonly known as the “control panel” of the brain) monitors your emotional state, while the thalamus (an information center that regulates consciousness) participates in how your emotional responses are executed.”
 
Our bodies respond to positive emotions such as joy by releasing dopamine and serotonin.  These are types of neurotransmitters the brain uses when responding to feelings and certain processes in our bodies. The increased chemical release of dopamine and serotonin has been directly correlated with increased levels of happiness.  It is further documented that lower serotonin levels have a direct correlation with diagnosed clinical depression.

“If you’re feeling down, simple activities like going for a walk in nature, petting a
 dog or cat, kissing a loved one, and yes, even forcing yourself to smile, can help
those neurotransmitters  do their job and raise your mood.”  Carrie Murphy --

When we are happier we are better partners, parents, children, and workers.  We have more patience and are less likely to have negative reactions to normal everyday occurrences.  In fact, when we have joy and happiness we are healthier and just overall better people.  Western societies are just beginning to embrace wellness as a benefit for employees.  More progressive employers promote more relaxed work environments.  This is because they understand it increases productivity.  Take this opportunity to personally decide to increase your productivity on all levels.  Do this by taking time before, during or after work as your lifestyle permits.  If you are not presently doing it, stop today and look at ways to readjust your schedule.  Ask for what you need whether at home or at work.
Start small initially.  Decide to take 15 minutes to walk outside and around the building if working.  Build to 60 minutes even if it has to be in 30-minute increments.  Use your imagination.  Feed the ducks; get in a quick work out; play some music in your car instead of using drive time for communication; etc.  Remember, the ideas are limitless.  Keep in mind, this about doing what brings you joy.  You will immediately notice your stress levels decrease and, in time, your overall health will improve.  Let’s remember to be childlike.  Seek to find enjoyment in the most simplest of things.
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I, in all ways, wish for you - Love, Peace, Joy, Safety and Prosperity.