Need a dose of happiness? Fiji has just the prescription. Tourism Fiji found out its tagline: ‘Where happiness comes naturally’ is scientifically proven, teaming up with neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski to explore why Fijians are among the happiest people on Earth – and whether visitors can enjoy enhanced wellbeing as well.
In the new study ahead of International Day of Happiness (20 March), Dr Landowski was joined by surfer Laura Enever, artist Elliot Routledge and chef Tom Walton, all on their own personal pursuits of happiness, using Hexoskin Smart Garments wearable technology to track body responses.
The study measured and analysed heart rate, breathing rate and heart rate variability (HRV) for stress monitoring as the four participants immersed themselves in the local way of life.
During the experiment, the three travellers engaged with locals in activities, such as traditional kava ceremonies, village visits, surfing, cooking and painting, while being monitored by Dr Landowski and the Hexoskins.
The results were striking. Tom’s heart rate dropped by more than half within moments of arrival in the island nation, Elliot’s breathing rate decreased when interacting with locals, and Laura showed increased adrenaline levels while surfing.
Dr Landowski observed that the key elements that contribute to an overall feeling of happiness are found in abundance in Fiji and by simply being exposed to them, each participants’ feelings of happiness increased, too.
Highlighting the foundations of happiness – social connections, gratitude and being in nature – the investigation demonstrated that happiness transfers to those around it, proving that a holiday here will make you happier.
Dr Landowski said: “In Fiji, everyone says ‘bula’, everyone says ‘hello’. When you’re sharing a smile with someone, you feel their joy through emotional resonance and are more likely to mimic those behaviours.”
“The simple act of smiling, or saying ‘bula’ or even waving, all of these things create this sense of connection to one another, and we know that more connection leads to a feeling of happiness and reduces biomarkers of stress.”
Part of the Fijian secret to happiness is stopping to enjoy the moment. “Island time isn’t just about slowing down, it’s about reclaiming control over your own time,” Dr Landowski said.
“We experience so much time famine in Western society, always rushing around, and that loss of autonomy robs us of happiness.”
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