“There was no need for a term like ‘magical thinking’ in the Golden Age of Man…there was only genuine everyday magic and mysticism. Children were not mocked or scolded in those days for singing to the rain or talking to the wind.” – Anthon St.Maarten The world we live in is driven by corporate profits, money, over-development, greed which has reduced us to mere commodities, drifting us away from our roots, our ancient ones and beliefs. But what if I told you that old school wisdom is the saving resort in these challenging times. Even modern science doesn’t disagree with some of the ancient beliefs. In fact, inculcating few of the ancient psychological practices in your daily life can transform us into a healthier and happier being. Lets take a look at the 8 ancient beliefs validated by modern science. Love is All you Need “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ~ Lao Tzu Love is the answer to all the problems of life. As the Beatles put it, “All you need is love.” It harmonises the fluctuating nature of mind and keeps it positive. Researchers and Psychologists concluded that love is a powerful antidote to fight stress, conflict, dilemma and depression. It keeps one’s mental, emotional and physical being in sync. It eliminates the negative emotions of the self that adversely affect immunity and cardiovascular functions. Be Compassionate “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” ― Dalai Lama Compassion is an ability to acknowledge the emotional state of our fellow human beings. Several studies prove that people who practice compassion experience constant change in their brain and respond positively to stress. They have a better immune system, reduced anxiety and a great overall sense of satisfaction and well being. In Tibetan Buddhism, Metta Bhavana is a form of meditation to practice compassion, that boost one’s ability to empathize with others. Art of Acceptance “Of course there is no formula for success except, perhaps, an unconditional acceptance of life and what it brings.” - Arthur Rubinstein Acceptance is an act of courage, its about embracing the present moment the way it is. Accepting things that cannot be changed helps in reducing suffering and letting go of the mental clutter. A study showed that accepting what cannot be changed is key to happiness and greater life satisfaction in old age after loss of independence. Community Belonging “If you want to go fast…go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb It is an emotionally overwhelming statement. Human mind is designed in a way that community acceptance plays an integral role in releasing happy hormones in the brain. Research has proved that community support helps one in boosting self-esteem. Social relationships and a sense of belongingness increases one’s cultural proficiency and communication skills. It has a direct psychological impact where you are emotionally charged up to support and seek support. Meditation and Mindfulness Meditation is the best medication. This ancient technique of reaching a higher level of consciousness affects our psychological well-being by reducing stress, depression, anxiety, blood pressure, addiction, boosts immune system and improves memory. It can transform your brain, create new circuits or change the way neurons talk to each other. Tai Chi Helps Prevent Many Age-related Health Problems Tai Chi, the ancient Chinese mind-body practice, can help treat or prevent many age-related health problems. Also known as moving meditation, Tai Chi is considered to be safe for people of all ages as it does not put too much stress on the muscles and joints. Studies have proved that it benefits people suffering from arthritis, low bone density and heart disease. Acupuncture for Pain Relief Acupuncture, the 3000-year old Chinese medicinal technique, is based on natural laws that govern the movement of vital life-force energy called “Chi” within our body. The Chi energy flows through meridians (pathways) within the physical body coordinating the functions of mind, body and spirit. The ancient technique of inserting hair thin needles at specific points along the channels of Chi energy, helps the body to restore balance and regain energy. Its also an effective way to relieve migraines, arthritis and other chronic pains. Honour yourself by Helping Others “Be not inhospitable to strangers lest they be angels in disguise.” – Walls of Shakespeare and Company Bookshop Plato looked at happiness in two different ways. In one form, one is incarcerated in fulfilling one’s selfish needs and motives that make them happy. This is being hedonist that leads to hedonist happiness. It is temporary in nature. On the contrary, the happiness that one gets in helping others is known as eudemonic happiness that is enduring in nature. It leaves one feeling positive and beautiful. Eudemonic happiness leads to production of enzymes in the body that fights virus and other harmful elements. Multiple journals have been published describing the linkage between being helpful and healthy. Image Sources : Happy Feet Hearts Compassion Acceptance Community love Meditation Tai Chi Help