NATIONAL JOY GERM DAY
Okay, so we weren’t really sure at first what a “joy germ” even was, but it’s just another way of describing how happiness is contagious. Yup, that old saying that “you should smile because it’s contagious” has its own day.
The idea behind calling it “joy germ” was because germs and other pathogens spread from person to person so readily. So it seemed a good idea that happiness should also be highly infectious.
History of Joy Germ Day
Back in 1981, Joan White of Syracuse, New York thought of the idea of holding Joy Germ Day, and the idea has developed a following that stretches across the US as well as around the world. Ms. White is a retired advertising and public relations specialist and it’s little surprise that she’s displayed her creativity and positive thinking to promote the idea of joy germs.
The original Joy Germ Day also fell on White’s mother’s birthday, as it was her energy that inspired White to have the day to honor her. White isn’t entirely sure how she came up with the idea of joy germs. One mention of it came from a piece she wrote one time for a local inn, but the inn owner had asked her to remove mention of the phrase at that time. So she kept it for herself and ultimately came up with Joy Germ Day.
“May a giant jar of jaunty joy germs rest gently on you and yours.” - JW
Interesting Facts
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The chemical serotonin is linked to inducing happiness in our brain
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Foods that are rich in tryptophan such as chicken, nuts, and milk enhance the production of serotonin
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Eating a moderate amount of chocolate can boost your mood as they release endorphins
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Studies show that expressing gratitude generates optimism
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Physical activities cause the brain to release “happy” hormones such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin
"May a felicitous jar of joy germs fill you with elation." - HB
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GOOD LUCK, STAY SAFE AND HAPPY CACHING!