Joy is good for your body and your mind – 3 ways to feel it more often

By Jolanta Burke, Senior Lecturer in Psychology, University of East London, and Padraic J. Dunne, Lecturer, Centre of Positive Psychology and Health, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences

In our fast-paced lives, finding moments of true joy can sometimes feel elusive. Often mistaken for happiness, joy is a unique emotion that can have profound effects on both our mental and physical well-being. Let's explore what joy is, how it impacts us, and three simple ways to invite more of it into our lives.

Understanding Joy

A Deeper Sense of Satisfaction

Joy is more than just a fleeting emotion; it represents a deep sense of satisfaction with life. It often arises from achieving something we've long desired, exceeding our expectations.

Beyond Happiness

While happiness is pursued, joy emerges naturally, often after experiences of awe or wonder. It's that feeling of being "blessed" or profoundly content.

The Smile of Joy

Interestingly, the smile that accompanies joy is distinct from other emotions. It's known as a Duchenne smile, genuine and reaching our eyes, signaling a range of benefits like improved physical health and stronger social bonds.

The Body's Response to Joy

Physiological Changes

When we experience joy, our body reacts. Our breathing quickens, our heart rate increases, and we feel warmth throughout our chest and body. This is due to the release of adrenaline, preparing us for action and boosting our mood.

Neurotransmitters at Play

In the brain, joy activates pleasure-related areas, releasing neurotransmitters like dopamine (pleasure), serotonin, noradrenaline, and endorphins (natural opiates). These chemicals spread the sensation of joy throughout our central nervous system.

Genetic Influences on Joy

Some research suggests that the capacity for joy is partly genetic, with about 30% of people having a predisposition for positive experiences. These individuals may find it easier to experience joy, even without an obvious joyful event.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Joy

1. Sharing Food

• Eating with others can amplify our joy, not just due to social connection but also the act of sharing itself.
• Consider organizing a dinner party where everyone contributes to the meal, fostering joy through shared preparation.

2. Engaging in Physical Activity

• The joy we experience during exercise often depends on the context.
• Running or exercising with friends tends to boost joy, as does achieving a fitness goal we once thought impossible.
• Challenge yourself with a fitness goal and invite friends to join you on the journey.

3. Writing About Joyful Experiences

• Taking time to write about moments of intense joy can significantly enhance our mood.
• Participants in a study who wrote about positive experiences reported better moods and fewer visits to the doctor.
• Reflect on joyful moments, such as reuniting with a loved one or witnessing a child's milestone, to nurture feelings of joy.

Embracing All Emotions

While joy brings immense benefits, it's essential to embrace the full spectrum of emotions life offers. Whether it's sadness, anger, happiness, or joy, each emotion plays a role in our human experience.

Incorporating these simple practices into our daily lives can help cultivate a deeper sense of joy, leading to improved well-being and a more fulfilling life.

Remember, joy is not a destination but a journey—a state of being we can actively invite into our lives through mindful actions and reflections.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on mental and physical well-being.