We’ve all heard it before: “Just sleep on it; you’ll feel better in the morning.”
It’s the kind of advice dished out by parents, friends, and even strangers. But is there any truth to this age-old saying?
According to a recent analysis published in the BMJ Mental Health journal, the correlation between the time of day and our emotional state has a strong scientific basis.
The findings reveal that our moods follow a predictable rhythm throughout the day, with happiness peaking at certain times and dipping at others.
So, if you’ve ever wondered why you feel a surge of positivity in the morning or a slump by mid-afternoon, you’re not alone.
For South Africans balancing the demands of work, family, and social commitments, understanding how time affects our emotions could be the key to living a healthier, more mindful life.
The science of mood fluctuations
The science of mood fluctuations The study, which analysed a staggering 509 million tweets from 2.4 million users across 84 countries, found a fascinating global trend: People tend to report being happiest in the morning and right before bedtime.
The data showed that on weekdays, positive emotions peaked between 6am and 9am dipped to their lowest between 3pm and 4pm, and then gradually climbed again in the evening.
Interestingly, the pattern shifted slightly on weekends. Since many of us use weekends to sleep in, the morning happiness peak moved to around 9am, before following a similar trajectory of midday slumps and evening rebounds.
But why does this happen? The researchers suggest that morning positivity could be tied to several factors, such as waking up refreshed, having a nutritious breakfast, or engaging in morning activities like exercise.
These activities contribute to what scientists call hedonic well-being the kind of happiness that comes from pleasant, momentary experiences. Hedonic vs. eudemonic well-being: two sides of happiness.
To truly understand how time impacts our mood, it’s essential to differentiate between two types of well-being: Hedonic well-being: This refers to the fleeting moments of joy we experience like enjoying a cup of coffee, watching a funny video, or spending time with friends.
Hedonic vs. eudemonic well-being: two sides of happiness
Hedonic well-being: Refers to moments of joy, such as savouring a cup of coffee, watching a humorous video, or socialising with friends.
Eudemonic well-being: This type of happiness is deeper and more long-term, encompassing actions that align with our values and lead to fulfilment. Think of activities like therapy, reflecting on personal growth, or showing gratitude to loved ones.
Both forms of well-being play a crucial role in our overall happiness, and the study highlights how time of day influences these experiences.
What can we learn from this study? Whether you’re a student cramming for exams, a professional rushing to meet deadlines, or a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, the 3pm low can feel unavoidable.
However, understanding why this happens can help us take proactive steps to combat it. For example: Start your day with intention to start your day right.
The morning is when our mood is naturally at its highest, making it the perfect time to tackle important tasks, exercise, or reflect on personal goals.
To maximise happiness early on, aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep to wake up refreshed. Sleep deprivation is closely linked to irritability and lower happiness levels.
Practical tips for improved well-being
Plan for the afternoon slump: Respect the afternoon dip. Midday offers an opportunity to recharge and increase happiness, but this requires stepping away from stressful activities.
Be kind to yourself, especially during challenging moments. Treat yourself with the same understanding and care you would offer a friend.
Here’s how:
Socialise: Spend your lunch break connecting with colleagues, friends, or loved ones. Studies show that human connection is one of the strongest contributors to happiness.
Eat mindfully: Enjoy a nutritious meal without distractions, savouring each bite. Foods rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and fruits can enhance mood.
Get outside: Exposure to natural light and fresh air significantly boosts happiness. Even a 10-minute walk outside can improve your mood and energy levels.
Lean into evenings for reflection: As positivity rises again after dinner, use this time to connect with loved ones, journal, or engage in activities that bring long-term fulfilment. Spend a few minutes reflecting on things you’re grateful for.
Journaling or simply thinking about the positive aspects of your life can boost your mood.
Unplug: Reduce screen time during breaks. Instead, engage in activities like reading, stretching, or meditating to clear your mind.
Focus on the present: Happiness is often found in the small, everyday moments. Practice mindfulness and savour the present rather than worrying about the past or future.
The key is to listen to your body’s rhythms, focus on meaningful connections, and engage in activities that refresh your mind and soul.
Happiness is not just about fleeting moments of joy but about cultivating habits that bring lasting contentment.