Well-Being Research - Shopping may not be good for you!

   A Message from Noelyne....

Wellbeing research - This is an article I spotted some time ago and unfortunately forgot to keep the link to it....

Wellbeing research tells us that the way we spend our free time is a crucial element in creating happy and fulfilled lives.

While shopping frequently emerges as one of our most popular leisure activities, studies have found that people who place a lot of importance on acquiring material goods tend to be less satisfied with their lives, as well as having poorer quality relationships with people close to them. In fact, spending time on relationships with families and friends is one of the key ways that we can enhance our wellbeing. Happy people have stronger social relationships than those who are less happy, and being part of a strong social network has been shown to help protect against the experience of mental health difficulties.

Neuroscientists have found that our brains are wired so that we naturally find co-operating with others rewarding. Evidence suggests that people who contribute to their communities by volunteering and taking part in social activities have a greater sense of self-worth and meaning in their lives. This might help to explain why offering practical and emotional support has even been shown to help people live longer!

If the activities you choose in your free time also involve learning a new skill, so much the better. Participating in learning activities has a positive impact on wellbeing, and also improves people's ability to cope when things in life don't go according to plan, a characteristic known as resilience.

If that all sounds rather hectic, you'll be pleased to hear that taking the time to stop and appreciate your experiences is also an important contributor to wellbeing. Simply being aware of what is taking place around you in the here-and-now can lead to increased positive emotions. And particularly relevant here is evidence that having an attitude of open awareness helps you choose to act in ways which best correspond to things that you value and find interesting.

So what can I say.  I have always maintained that the simpler things in life are what make you happy.  A smile, mother nature, spending time with family and friends.  Go do some more of the Free Stuff and stop shopping!

Have fun!

Noelyne

P.S. Sign up for my Free Special Report on How to Feel Healthy and Happy