The Science of Happiness

With hectic working days, demanding families and busy social lives, it can be hard to take time out for yourself. Yet scientists are recognising how important it is to look after your mental health and wellbeing, so you feel less stressed and happier.

Published: February 7, 2018 at 12:00 am

Albert Einstein might be most well known for his theory of relativity, but maybe his theory of happiness is more useful to you and I. In a visit to Tokyo in 1922, Einstein jotted down his thoughts on happiness on some hotel stationery. Last year, the note sold for an incredible £1.19 million. (Who says money can’t buy happiness?!)

So, what were his gems of wisdom that warrant such a price? “A calm and humble life will bring more happiness than the pursuit of success and the constant restlessness that comes with it.”

Wise words indeed. Almost a century later and research is revealing why a calm and humble life really is the route to happiness. In the new special edition from the team atBBC Focus, experts explain the strong link between lifestyle and mood: how cities affect mental health, how bacteria changes our emotions, why some pain is a good thing, and how social media could be making us miserable.

The experts also reveal what research shows about how to be happy – from what to spend your money on in your quest for happiness to how to beat the winter blues, de-stress your life, ‘hygge’ your home, cope with depression, find your inner zen, and dance your way to a happy life.

Plus, we discover the happiest people and places on the planet… (It seems Einstein had the right idea living much of his life in Switzerland). Enjoy!

Order your copy for only £9.99 with FREE UK postage if you are a UK subscriber toBBC Focus Magazine,£11.49 for non-subscribers (EUR £12.99, ROW £13.49) – visitwww.buysubscriptions.comor call03330162138.

Check out this free sample onissuu.com.

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