What are Emotions?
We all feel emotions everyday, it’s part of being human.
Emotions are complex psychological and physiological responses to stimuli that involve subjective feelings, thoughts, and physical changes. They play a crucial role in the human journey, influencing behaviour, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships. Emotions can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including external events, internal thoughts, and physiological states.
There are a range of basic emotions that are considered universal across all cultures. These include joy, sadness, anger, fear, surprise, and disgust. These emotions can be conveyed through facial expressions, body language, and speech.
Emotions involve both cognitive and physiological components. The cognitive component encompasses the feelings and thoughts associated with an emotion. The physiological component involves the bodily responses, such as changes in heart rate, hormonal levels, and other autonomic nervous system activities.
Research suggests that some emotions serve evolutionary purposes, such as helping individuals respond adaptively to their environment. For example, fear may prompt a fight-or-flight response in the face of a threat, while joy can reinforce positive behaviours.
Emotions are complex and can vary widely between different individuals and cultures. Researchers continue to explore the complexities of emotions, examining their neurological basis, cultural influences, and impact on mental and physical well-being.