Gorge Happiness adjusts to pandemic with virtual observance

But COVID-19 can’t stop gratitudes, acts of kindness and moments of silence, and that makes them all the more important.

Gorge Happiness Month is an effort to inspire as many people as possible to take up those three daily habits, which are scientifically shown to make humans happier and healthier, according to organizer Emily Reed of Mosier.

“These habits truly work and are needed now more than ever,” she said.

A wide and growing body of research has shown that happier people are healthier, have lower stress levels and live longer lives. And while genetics and environment are responsible for 60 percent of our happiness level, 40 percent is in our direct control.

Reed noted that Happiness Month gatherings will happen virtually, with no in-person meetings or hosted booths at various events.

“This means we will be relying more on our partners to help spread the word and encourage folks to actively do the habits,” Reed said. 

“We have a Facebook group where anyone can post their gratitudes, any acts of kindness they see in the area, or anything out there on the science of happiness,” Reed said. In addition, a new Happiness Council has been formed and anyone interested “in helping to make Happiness Month bigger or reach further,” may contact gorgehappiness.org or check out the Facebook page. “We’d love your ideas and participation,” Reed said.