Introduction

Research by Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and others shows that intentionally cultivating joy and other positive emotions increases happiness and benefits our physical health.  These positive emotions lead to an “upward spiral” of positivity that has important benefits.  This happens because positive emotions help us become more creative, learn new skills, and develop important psychological resources.  These resources can “undo” the effects of negative emotions and build our resilience necessary to cope with challenges.  Therefore, Dr. Fredrickson encourages us to seek out positive emotions.  But it is important to recognize that positive emotions are more than mere pleasant physical sensations, such as enjoying the taste of an ice cream cone.  Instead, Fredrickson emphasizes positive emotions such as joy, love, awe, pride, interest, and serenity, among others.