Before we get into the science behind it, I want to tell you a story about a time I experienced the benefits of joy firsthand. Sure, it felt good at the time. But the impact of this moment could have had a lasting positive impact on much more than just how my day went.
I was walking up the path to the pool when I noticed him.
Digging through the trash can outside the entry door. Looking for cans to recycle. Definitely needing a shower.
I offered him what I had, which was an organic fig bar. I thought he might like it because it was soft and he probably wasn’t seeing a dentist regularly. He accepted it with delight and said he had steak yesterday and really wanted some fiber today so the fig bar was perfect! He gave me his toothless smile. His eyes beamed.
My eyes probably beamed as well. While that fig bar was my after-class snack, I could make it home where there were more like it. He probably didn’t get many offers out of the blue. I was glad to make his day. It brought me a sense of joy.
I heard recently that one of the benefits of joy is that it helps keep Alzheimer’s at bay.
So said UCSF Professor Emeritus Michael Merzenich, a neuroscientist who studied the brain and, in particular, its plasticity.
Now you know the brain can be rewired, but you know this because of the research by Professor Merzenich.
In early 2020, Professor Merzenich presented at The Commonwealth Club in San Francisco.
Because I live so close to Alzheimer’s, (and the club) I decided to go. The piece of information that jumped out to me was not about the neuroplasticity per se, but about the impact of joy on the brain.
Proverbs 17:22 has apparently been scientifically proven:
A joyful heart IS good medicine.
The Benefits of Joy
From what I understood, the emotion of joy releases dopamine and serotonin in the brain.
These two neurotransmitters create the feeling you get in your body that you label as “joy”. It’s what you experience when you perform a selfless act, often involving a personal sacrifice.
It’s different from the feeling of “happiness”. Happiness tends to be calmer and more grounded whereas joy is closer to elation.
That’s right: One of the benefits of joy is that it stimulates the brain in a positive way that seems to deter the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Do you get a sense of joy when you finally learn that computer program? Or figure out that challenging calculus problem? No. That’s a sense of satisfaction.
Joy comes in relationships. It comes from a connection with someone else. You feel a sense of delight, warmth, and energy.
Joy is a Two-Way Street
But here is the important message: joy is a two-way street. To fully experience the benefits of joy, you must seek it AND spread it.
You get the positive impact of adding joy to someone else’s life by an act of goodwill. You can also get a sense of joy from receiving something from another person. It registers the same in your brain with the dopamine and the serotonin whether you are the giver or the receiver.
This means you have control over the amount of dopamine and serotonin you get.
The more you give to others, the more joy you bring into the world, the more your brain responds positively.
And this will help prevent Alzheimer’s. (According to Professor Merzenich)
I didn’t know this amazing secret. That is something I can put to use IMMEDIATELY! It can’t hurt to give generously and hope for the best! It’s a win-win-win!
You help someone else feel joy, you feel joy in the giving, and both your brains get a positive dose of dopamine and serotonin to activate your brain centers.
What are the Ways You Can Add Joy to the World?
I’m so glad you asked. It’s through connection!
Don’t you feel that sense of joy when you connect deeply with someone in your life? Don’t you feel that sense of joy when you give generously to another person? It’s not about giving money or things. It’s about giving of yourself, of your time, of your spirit, of your energy. That’s where the joy blossoms.
Who wouldn’t want a garden full of joy blooming in their heart? You have the power within you to
bring that about! And it leads to brain health!
So today is the day to start. Make a plan or be spontaneous. Spontaneous joy is an awesome thing to give! Want a head start? I’ve got the secret to adding more joy to your life right here.
As another added benefit, you can also use this to expand your comfort zone!
Giving people you don’t know a compliment or acknowledging them in some way also adds joy. And don’t forget your water aerobics instructor! Be sure to tell her she’s rocking that red lipstick!
Have a great week expanding the joy in the world!
Hugs,
Alicia
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