Cause for Celebration: Why it’s Good for Us
Forms of celebration are present in almost every human society and culture across the globe. They are a way to mark significant events, milestones, and achievements, creating moments of joy and togetherness. But what does science say about celebration? Today, we’re here to talk about all the incredible benefits of celebration, its impact on our brains, and why we should do it more!
The social element
Celebrations provide an excellent opportunity for the positive social interactions that essential to maintaining social bonds. These connections promote optimal brain and mental health all the way into old age.
And not only do celebratory events provide the sense of belonging that has proven long-term brain health benefits, but they also foster a sense of collective well-being by bringing communities together. And what does all this mean? Better emotional resilience, a more positive outlook, and improved cognitive function. It’s a win-win!
The neurochemical boost
Engaging in celebration also encourages the release of those wonderful mood-enhancing neurochemicals that lead to a healthy, happy brain. This includes:
Dopamine: the so-called pleasure and reward neurotransmitter
Serotonin: the mood-stabilizing hormone
Oxytocin: the “love” neurotransmitter.
The psychological gains
And if that wasn't enough, celebrations have also been shown in studies to:
Help combat stress by providing a break from daily worries
Reduce feelings of anxiety
Create time for relaxation
All of this creates a level of protection from the adverse cognitive effects of chronic worries and stressors.
Celebrating can also:
Enhance the formation of new memories
Strengthen the neural pathways associated with positive experiences.
The long-term
As you can see, although celebrations aren’t something often thought of as health-boosting, the benefits of celebrating are significant and widespread! In the long term, regular participation in celebratory activities can promote a positive mindset to act as a buffer against mental health disorders, encourage healthy living, and enhance cognitive well-being. So, what have you got to celebrate? Big or small, don’t forget to mark the occasion!