Happiness Means Better Health (Among Other Things)

A recent U.S. study discovered that happiness plays a more important role in health than previously thought, a conclusion welcomed by the self-development industry, who have believed this for many years. Alexandra Watson is a happiness expert and best-selling author of "The Happiness System for Women."

(PRWEB) November 17, 2006 -- A recent U.S. study discovered that happiness plays a more important role in health than previously thought, a conclusion welcomed by the self-development industry, who have believed this for many years.

Alexandra Watson, happiness expert and best-selling author, found the study's conclusions that people who have positive emotions are less likely to catch colds or diseases. She says, "It's really an evolution of the old belief 'mind over matter', in that how you think directly effects how you feel and ultimately live."

But this report is just one more that reinforces the importance of happiness. Back in December 2005, scientists reviewed 225 studies involving 275,000 people and found that chronically happy people are in general more successful in their personal and professional lives.

Rather than being thought of as a mere luxury, happiness now appears to be essential in every aspect of our lives. Happy people are more likely to have fulfilling marriages and relationships, higher incomes, be superior work performers, be more involved in their community, be of robust health and even a longer life than the more pessimistic folk.

Alexandra adds, "As it is very nearly the season to be jolly, we should all look to expanding our happiness levels. Now this is easier than you think, a very clear first step, especially coming up to the Holidays, is to just simply think about what makes you happy. Don't get stuck thinking about what others like, think about what you like.

"This simple exercise gives a clearer idea of what happiness means to you personally, once you know that, you will have a better idea of what you need to do."

Here are three of Alexandra's seven must-have happiness steps:

1.    Know exactly what makes you happy

2.    Be very clear about what makes you unhappy

3.    Know the Happiness Myths -- for example, being in a relationship, or being thinner does not make you happy.

Alexandra Watson is a happiness expert and best-selling author of "The Happiness System for Women." For more information on her seven must-have happiness steps or any happiness issue, contact Alexandra by e-mail. Visit http://www.AlexandraWatson.com

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