Some studies suggest that those who believe that their existence has meaning have lower levels of the cortisol stress hormone, and they also have more favorable gene expression related to inflammation. In one epidemiological study involving over 43,000 Japanese participants, not having ikigai was linked to a 60% increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Even after controlling for health-related behaviors the strong effects of meaning on longevity still remained. Part of the reason may be that having a purpose in life affects our stress response. However, those who reported having high levels of purpose tended to calm down more quickly, according to Eric Kim, a psychologist at the University of British Columbia.

Source: Washington Post November 28, 2023 23:08 UTC