Positive feelings have an immense value for physical and mental health. When we are happy, our body relaxes, our blood pressure drops and our well-being automatically increases.
Scientific studies have shown that the anticipation of something also makes us happy. In anticipation of something nice, our brain produces plenty of the happiness hormone dopamine. Our zest for life and confidence are boosted. When we look forward to something in the future, such as a trip, we imagine the event vividly in our mind's eye. This imagination ensures that happiness hormones are released and stress is reduced. The anticipation of meeting a loved one also fills us with positive feelings. As "The Little Prince" by Saint-Exupéry so aptly puts it:
If you come at four o'clock in the afternoon, then I can start being happy at three o'clock.
Let's use the positive effect of anticipation. Let's really get our happiness hormones going.
What nice thing are you planning soon? A vacation or a trip at the weekend? Imagine it in detail in bright colors. Or plan something right now. What could you do tonight, for example? A cozy dinner with friends or a trip to the cinema? Paint something nice in your mind and enjoy the anticipation all day long! What are you looking forward to? Savor the positive feelings to the full.
You can find more tips from our happiness expert Dr. Sandra Boltz in her book "ICare. 30 days. Mindfulness. Happiness".