March 20: International Day of Happiness

Céline Arétin, culture, women's issues and environment correspondent, March 20, 2025

Origin of the International Day of Happiness

International Day of Happiness, created by the United Nations General Assembly on June 28, 2012, and celebrated every March 20, has its origins in Bhutan, a small country in the Himalayas known for valuing "Gross National Happiness" (GNH) over GDP.

Benefits of happiness on physical and mental health

Happy people have more stable blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Research conducted by Harvard University found that optimistic individuals were 15% less likely to die prematurely. In 2016, a University of California study showed that people who frequently express gratitude produce more serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters linked to well-being. Physically, a Mayo Clinic survey observed that patients with a positive attitude recovered faster after surgery. Practices such as mindfulness meditation and yoga, known to boost happiness, are also associated with a reduction in cortisol, the stress hormone.

How to cultivate happiness every day

Keeping a gratitude journal by noting three positive things each day helps develop a more optimistic outlook. Mindfulness meditation, adopted by companies like Google through its "Search Inside Yourself" program, helps reduce stress and improve concentration. Regular physical exercise, even in the form of short walks, boosts endorphin production and has a positive effect on mood. Finally, simple habits such as listening to cheerful music or decorating your living space with bright colors can lift your spirits.

Simple gestures to bring happiness to those around you

Offering a smile to a stranger can instantly improve their mood. In several major cities, initiatives such as "Free Hugs" have allowed passersby to receive friendly embraces, creating moments of spontaneous joy. Offering spontaneous help, for example by carrying an elderly person's groceries or holding the door, strengthens social bonds. This is also the principle behind "Suspended Coffee" cafes, which invite customers to buy a coffee for someone in need.