Happiness has a proper name in the scientific field now: positive psychology.
Fundamental composition of happiness:
50%set point (genetically determined), 10%status (money/power), 40% u could do to change
So for the 40% that we could work on... here we go.
1) Basic ways to achieve:
+ Nature
+ Exercise in novel ways (workout at the gym is my religion. but really I could do better, such as more spontaneous outdoor sports.)
2) Indicator of happiness -- Optimal experience : "in the zone", "flow"
Flow can even happen at work! It's all about the right rhythm.
3) Happiness is relative term. Minds think by looking at contrast.
Hedonistic treadmill is a no no.
4) Human are surprisingly good at facing adversities. Adversities will always pass by.
5) Commonality of all happiest people: close supportive family and friends
6) Driver of happiness:
- Extrinsic goals: money, image(looking good), status (popularity)
- Intrinsic goals: personal growth, close connected relationships, desire to help ( to make a world a better place)
7) Humanity achievement is more than high GDP, but really "Gross National Happiness"
8) Okinawa, ppl with longest lifespan (reflect upon their life style: to me, it's the social element esp)
We are social creatures, therefore need social bonding;
otherwise we would be totally self-interested.
COOPERATION, instead of competition, triggers release of dopamine,
similar to how drug affects our dopamine system.
9) The best thing we can do for child is to help them learn love
We, through intention, can change our brain : meditation, compassion,acts of kindness --> Practice Often!
10) Final conclusion:
Ultimate formula: Play; New experiences; Friends and family; Doing things that are meaningful; Appreciate what we have
Lastly, there was one topic on the relevance of dopamine to Parkinson's disease (Use it or lose it theory), mentioned in the documentary, which I was rather interested in, so I found an article for you guys to check out:
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/all-about-parkinsons-disease-dopamine-levels-427763.html
