FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Happiness Leads to Healthy Heart

"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." -e.e. cummings

According to Buddha, "Happiness comes when your work and words are of benefit to yourself and others." Many of us spend a lifetime seeking happiness but not everyone is lucky enough to discover that real happiness comes from within. If you are fortunate enough to love the work you do, and if it provides a benefit to others, happiness will creep in when you're not even looking!

In the February issue of Bellissima, as we discuss healthy hearts, remember that happiness and a positive attitude affects our overall wellness. Laughter can be one of the most powerful influences we have. Science tells us that a healthy diet, an active lifestyle and good genes can all have a positive effect on cardiac wellness. However, we cannot discount the impact of true happiness and contagious laughter!

We're taught to believe that finding success will bring us happiness. Yet without a true understanding of how our actions affect the world and those around us, success may be something we struggle with throughout our lives. Good health, family and friends, and a stable job are all important but can be fleeting and don't necessarily guarantee total fulfillment. Achieving a deep state of happiness can only come from within, and to be happy, we must have real purpose.

If you struggle with challenges, know that these areas of your life are important in establishing character and propelling you even closer to your purpose. If you "leave it all on the field" when pursuing your dreams, it may be difficult to really appreciate the results of your hard work.

Think about your purpose and determine if your actions are truly creating a state of wellbeing. Laying the foundation of living happily nurtures a healthy heart. If the direction of your life today is not providing fulfillment and does not align with your purpose, change direction. You have choices in life and if you can be present in each of those choices, happiness will find you.

Laugh today and every day, and feel how it affects you from the inside out. This year, let happiness find you!

Pia Mangini

Bonni Parsons Mitchell