April, Abundance, Happiness
World Health Day, celebrated this month, marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO), which was founded in 1948. This day serves as a valuable reminder to prioritize health, especially in this season of blooming flowers and sunny, warmer weather. Many people feel inspired to take better care of themselves, eating nutritious meals, exercising, maintaining daily routines, and managing stress levels. These habits greatly contribute to physical and mental well-being. Personally, I find that investing time in health and building strong personal relationships makes life richer. Smiling and laughter, which are contagious, also add happiness to our lives. Staying connected to positive and supportive people is an integral part of maintaining well-being, often prompting us to redefine our values to include health more consciously.
April Fool’s Day, another notable event this month, originated from ancient festivals like Hilaria (Latin for “joyful”). Celebrated in ancient Rome at the end of March by followers of the Cybele cult, the festivities involved dressing in disguises and mocking others, including magistrates. This tradition is said to have drawn inspiration from the Egyptian legend of Isis, Osiris, and Seth. Interestingly, the theme of humor connects this historical observance to the modern acknowledgment of laughter as the best medicine. Scientific research has proven that laughter reduces stress and pain, strengthens the immune system, and promotes overall health. It relaxes muscles, increases blood flow, improves heart rate, boosts pain tolerance, and reduces inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It even benefits the digestive system, helping to regulate glucose levels after meals.
Diet also plays a significant role in shaping mood and mental health. Studies suggest that dietary changes can enhance quality of life and reduce depression without medication. One study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry found that people who consume whole foods experience fewer symptoms of depression compared to those who rely on processed foods. Another study in Nutrition Journal indicated that vegetarians tend to have more positive moods than meat eaters. The protective effects of fruits and vegetables, alongside the harmful impact of animal foods, influence mood substantially. Plant-based diets are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that repair cell damage and reduce brain inflammation, restoring balance to neurotransmitters. Quercetin, a natural antidepressant found in apples, kale, berries, grapes, onions, and green tea, boosts serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Conversely, animal-based foods containing arachidonic acid can trigger inflammatory processes, leading to brain inflammation, anxiety, stress, and depression. Limiting such foods improves both physical and mental health. While omega-3 fatty acids are often recommended for combating depression, plant-based sources of ALA—like walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, and leafy greens—provide these essential fats without the negative effects associated with animal products.
Positive emotions and laughter further support vision health by increasing blood flow to facial muscles and eyes, stimulating tear production, and lubricating the eyes. Stress, on the other hand, activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing vascular spasms and reduced blood supply to the eyes. Relaxation practices can counteract these effects, promoting vision improvement and preventing eye diseases. I see it all the time in my students I am teaching a natural vision improvement method.
Whole foods and laughter, truly nature’s medicines, contribute greatly to our health and happiness. By embracing these elements, alongside relaxation practices and positive connections, we can enhance our physical, emotional, and even visual well-being. Let this month inspire us to celebrate life with good health, laughter, and cherished relationships.
