After researching all kinds of theories for treating disease, and trying to reconcile the different points of view, I've come to the conclusion that real "cure for all diseases" is contentment. You can interpret this biologically (endorphins, etc.), spiritually, or pyschologically, but it seems to me that it is the overriding factor in all well-being, and also what explains the people who do all the "wrong" things and yet live healthily into their nineties.
Of course happiness is probably the hardest thing to achieve (especially if you try!) but I believe it is where I should be focussing my efforts.
One study on communities which have above average longetivity (Blue Zones) honed in on four important factors: Exercise, Sense of purpose, Diet, Relationships with others and society at large.
I think all of these factors are contentment related. Two of them directly and I believe the other two (exercise and diet) are manifestations of happiness: Discontentment tends to lead to unhealthy lifestyles.
If anyone reading this knows the secret to contentment, please leave a comment ;)
Thomas Jefferson wasn't far off the mark two hundred plus years ago.....we have the right to life, liberty, and the PURSUIT of happiness.....I think you need to explore zen philosophy. If I were to paraphrase my understanding of the reciprocal of happiness it's that all suffering dreives from desire. Free yourself from desire my friend and don't attach yourself to any desired outcome of anything.....
ReplyDeleteEl Spudsrama