It’s no secret that certain objects can bring us joy. Whether it’s a favorite piece of clothing, a bouquet of fresh flowers, or a poster you’ve had since childhood, objects can evoke strong emotions in us. But why is this the case? And how do objects affect our emotions?

According to experts, there are a few reasons why certain objects bring us joy. One of the main reasons is that they remind us of positive experiences. For example, photographing a loved one can bring us joy because it reminds us of happy times spent together. Similarly, a piece of jewelry given to us by someone special can evoke positive emotions because it represents the love and connection we share with that person.

Another reason why objects bring us joy is that they can serve as a form of self-expression. The clothes we wear, the music we listen to, and the art we admire can all be reflections of our personalities and values. When we surround ourselves with objects that resonate with us personally, we can feel a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

Objects can also have a psychological impact on us. Studies have shown that the colors, textures, and shapes of things can all influence our moods and emotions. For example, bright colors can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, while soft textures can promote relaxation and calmness.

However, it’s important to note that not all objects bring us joy. In fact, some objects can have the opposite effect and evoke negative emotions. For example, a reminder of a traumatic event or a gift from someone we have negative feelings towards can bring up feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety.

So, how can we use this knowledge to our advantage? By surrounding ourselves with objects that bring us joy, we can improve our mood and overall well-being. This can be as simple as displaying photos of loved ones, listening to music that makes us happy, or wearing clothes that make us feel confident and comfortable.

In conclusion, objects can affect our emotions in powerful ways. By understanding why particular objects bring us joy and how objects can influence our mood, we can make more intentional choices about the objects we surround ourselves with. A YLHS student Hannah Jebelli (11) commented “One of my favorite weekend rituals is buying fresh flowers to keep in my room during the week, they bring such good energy and a burst of joy to my space.” By choosing objects that resonate with us on a personal level and evoke positive emotions, we can improve our overall happiness and well-being.