How small actions every day can improve our emotional health, according to a study

Although these actions go unnoticed by many people, performing daily acts of generosity can greatly improve their sense of generosity. Emotional well-beingAccording to a recent study published by the journal Great Joy Projectin cooperation between Greater Good Science Center Subordinate University of California, Berkeley and other research institutions.

The analysis was based on the participation of more than 70,000 people from more than 200 countries. This is an online survey where they have to answer questions about their feelings, stresses and social tendencies. Then they agree for seven consecutive days to try small activities that increase happiness, which the researchers called “happiness.” “Little acts” of joy.

According to Results, Individuals who do these “small acts” of joy daily feel a 25% increase in their emotional well-being over the course of a week.

In statements by L NPR, Emiliana Simone-Thomas, project leader and scientific director of the Center for Greater Good Science, is excited about “statistically significant and measurable changes, (including) increased well-being, better adjustment, reduced stress, and increased relationship satisfaction.” The study has linked such micro-actions to emotional well-being in previous research, including activities such as making a gratitude list, acts of kindness, celebrating the success of others, and positively reframing negative situations. Participants report their daily actions and feelings After a week, they rate how much their emotions and sense of well-being have changed.

This feeling of emotional control could be the reason for improved health, according to Elissa Epple, a BIG JOY collaborator and professor of psychiatry at Harvard University. University of California, San Francisco. Accept the assertion “I was able to influence, influence, or play an active role in how happy I felt overall.” Increased by a 27%. However, controlled studies have not yet been conducted, so these are preliminary results, pending future research.

In the context of global challenges, researchers see small actions as a tool to enhance collective well-being. Inspired by characters like The Dalai Lama And the Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the project is proposed as a way to promote well-being, even in the face of suffering. Importantly, these micronutrients are not a substitute for treatment or medication for serious mental health problems. But researchers suggest that it may be a first step in stimulating engagement in acts of altruism and public good.

Professionals from various fields, including Judith Moskowitz, a sociologist at the university Feinberg School of Medicine Subordinate Northwestern University , highlighting the importance of continuing scientific research on the benefits of positive psychology. Such micro-actions provide support in adverse situations and the potential to improve emotional well-being through continued practice. Like the benefits of physical exercise, the effects of these positive actions can be diminished if they are not maintained.

To start practicing Small acts of joySimon Thomas recommends planning it daily and incorporating it into your daily routine such as walking the dog or chatting with the neighbours. The intention behind these actions plays an essential role in their effectiveness.

The expert adds that instead of thinking of joy as something that happens to you, it may make more sense to think of it as something A skill you can improve with practice. “If you want to stay fit, you have to keep exercising,” says Simon Thomas, and perhaps the same applies to well-being.

In this sense, it should be taken into account that just as the benefits of exercise disappear, the effects of these micro-actions also disappear when you stop doing them.

“I feel optimistic. I feel more comfortable. I feel more supported in the world when I do these subtle practices myself,” says Simon Thomas. “I simply believe that people can change for the better,” he concludes.