Happiness Spreads

Happiness is something that can be created and grumpy moods can be reversed with a little effort.  There is a buddhist intent to only say positive things and I've been practicing it a lot on my own lately with some interesting outcomes. 

After have 5 clients one Friday I was careful and only said positive things.  I didn't complain about my laundry, or the frigid temps or any Hollywood gossip.  I stayed focused on the client and on positive things happening in Coolidge Corner.  Well, 3 out of 5 clients walked out saying, "this was such a great workout, thanks! I needed that."  While I get this a few times a month it is quite unusual to get 3 in one day! 

Prevention Magazine this month says, '"staying happy can have as powerful an impact on your physical health as avoiding cigarettes," says Dutch social scientist Ruut Veenhven, PhD.  He analyzed 30 past studies and found that happiness helps bolster the immune system, prevents healthy people from falling ill, and tacks on extra years of life as a result.'  

How cool is that? 

Another article in the Boston Globe last week said that spreading cheerfulness can have an effect on people you've never even met.  A friendly smile or act of kindness can spread from one person to another and another.  Helping the Mom with the stroller, or letting a harried person finish before you in line will make them feel like helping someone else.  The old concept of paying it forward. 

So the next time you're feeling grumpy, force yourself into a happy thought or compliment someone on their fabulous shoes.  What goes around really does come around.