Science says: Happiness is good for the heart

Should we be at all surprised to find out that once again science is proving the truth of God’s Word? Today, the European Society of Cardiology announced the findings of a major study recently published in the European Heart Journal – contentment is good for your health. No wonder God intends for us to live abundantly joyful lives. He always knows best.

Specifically, the study focused on the relationship between positive emotions and a lowered risk of heart disease, finding a strong correlation between them. The research was conducted on 1,739 healthy adults over the course of ten years. Researchers measured each participant’s risk of heart disease and assessed the presence of both positive and negative emotions, measuring such things as depression, anxiety, joy and contentment. It was discovered that an increased positive affect reduced the risk of heart disease by as much as 22%.

Researchers report they have several possible explanations, such as: a positive person experiences more rest and less stress. They surmise the “most successful interventions for depression include increasing positive affect as well as decreasing negative affect.”

We really shouldn’t need science to tell us such things. They are written in God’s handbook for life. Everyone should simply read and heed the instruction manual.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” -Matthew 11:28-30

Be First to Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *