6 Shocking Things That Make You Calmer and Happier
These stress and depression reducers may seem paradoxical (and a couple we wouldn't want to try deliberately), but that doesn't mean they don't work.
By Jena Pincott
The Great Unmentionable
The ultimate downer—death—gets a bad rap as an anxiety inducer, but reminders of mortality can inspire us to be more peaceful and compassionate, found a University of Missouri review.
Memento mori led religious fundamentalists to become less militant and more tolerant. Smokers kicked their nervous habit; others were less likely to get divorced. When a cemetery was in sight, passersby stopped 40 percent more often to help a stranger—a (presumably unconscious) attempt to reaffirm the good in life.
Next: 5 easy stress-busters you had no idea existed
Published 05/17/2013
