On which date is the United Nations' International Day of Happiness observed?
AnswerMarch 20
The UN General Assembly created the day in 2012, and it has been observed every March 20 since 2013.
Science · Facts & stats
Happy facts & stats
7 fact-checked facts about happiness, each with the reason behind it. 5 more are in today's round and join this page after it closes.
The basics
The word 'happy' comes from the old word 'hap'. What did 'hap' mean?
AnswerLuck or chance
'Hap' came from Old Norse 'happ', meaning luck; it also gave us 'happen' and 'perhaps'.
Going deeper
What are endorphins?
AnswerNatural pain-relieving chemicals made by the body
Endorphins are released by the nervous system; they dull pain and can produce feelings of well-being.
A genuine 'Duchenne smile' involves muscles around which part of the face?
AnswerThe eyes
Named after French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne, it engages muscles around the eyes, creating crow's-feet.
The tune of 'Happy Birthday to You' comes from an 1893 song originally titled what?
AnswerGood Morning to All
Sisters Patty and Mildred Hill published 'Good Morning to All' in 1893; its melody became 'Happy Birthday.'
Expert level
Which facial muscle pulls the corners of the mouth up and back when you smile?
AnswerZygomaticus major
The zygomaticus major runs from the cheekbone to the corner of the mouth and lifts it into a smile.
In psychology, what is the name for the state of being fully absorbed in a challenging, enjoyable task?
AnswerFlow
Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi described 'flow' as deep absorption in an activity well matched to one's skills.
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