Physically Healthy: How our physiological and psychological well-being collide.

-Alexandra Metzler 

Being happy.

Research suggests that genetics and our environment may play a big role in controlling our happiness.

“Being able to manage the emotional ups and downs is important for both body and mind,” said Laura Kubzansky, professor of social and behavioral sciences at Harvard School of Public Health.

Our surroundings can impact our mood at any moment.

Studies, including some by Kubzansky, have found a connection between psychological and physical well-being. A 2012 review  found a connection between happiness and life satisfaction with lower blood pressure, healthier body weight and a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease.

“People who have an optimistic mindset may be more likely to engage in healthy behaviors because they perceive them as helpful in achieving their goals,” Kubzansky said.

For now, these studies can only show associations; they do not provide hard evidence of cause and effect.

Where happiness comes from: genes + environment

Genetics influence happiness, according to Nancy Segal, psychologist at California State University, Fullerton, and author of "Born Together -- Reared Apart."

Research has shown that identical twins tend to have a similar level of happiness, more so than fraternal twins.

“In identical twins, one twin's happiness is a better predictor of the other twin's current or future happiness than educational achievement or income,” Segal said.

There was also a connection between the children’s and parent’s happiness.

"If you have happy parents and happy children, I think that people usually assume it's because the children are modeling the parents," Segal said. "But that's not really so. You need to make the point that parents pass on both genes and environments."

According to Segal, this doesn't mean anyone is biologically stuck being unhappy. It might take more work if your baseline mood is low, but certain therapies have proven useful for elevating psychological well-being.

"To say to someone, 'Don't worry, be happy,' is kind of not looking at the whole picture of, what are the environmental constraints on things they can do?" Kubzansky said.

Happiness: Living in the moment

How can we instantly help ourselves feel happy?

“If you're seeking to increase your own sense of happiness, try mindfulness techniques. 

Mindfulness means being present and in the moment, and observing in a nonjudgmental way,” said Susan Albers, psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic. .

“Activities such as keeping a gratitude diary and helping other people are also associated with feelings of well-being,” Kubzansky said.

Smartphone apps can help you monitor and enhance your moods.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help if needed.