The most cheerful birthday quote I have ever heard is “Our age is merely the number of years the world has been enjoying us”!
Birthdays are a time when our friends and family in town and abroad reach out to not only wish us but also to connect with us, sometimes after a whole year! And this really does boost our social wellness quotient on one hand. On the other, it helps us rejuvenate by making us feel loved and realise that we are a year older (and wiser).
There are several thoughts that cross our mind on our birthday such as what we achieved in the last year, what we can do to become a better version of ourselves in this new year of life or if today will be an enjoyable day.
Whilst the majority of people love celebrating special occasions like birthdays with family and friends there is a small percentage that do everything in their power to avoid celebrating their birthdays! They think folks wish them out of formality and not because they care for them.
Everyone has their reasons for their beliefs but generally it is a good idea to do whatever makes you happy on your birthday. It is no doubt a major milestone and a chance to boost our social and emotional wellness.
Sometimes birthdays are more important for someone else in the family such as the parents who are celebrating their child’s first birthday or a spouse celebrating his or her better half’s birthday. The reason that all cultures have their own traditions around birthdays is that they are meant to pass on good wishes and blessings to the person whose birthday it is for longevity and success and make them feel special, loved or both. Now, with the advent of social media, even acquaintances and people who you may not know so well have a chance to wish you on your birthday.
From a health point of view, the feel-good factor of enjoying a special day and getting acknowledged by family, friends and peers releases endorphins in our body making us feel relaxed and happy. So go ahead and enjoy your day and even if you are not into celebrations, definitely dwell on the feel-good factor to reap health benefits!
