When stress creeps in while we’re at work, running errands, or waiting for dinner to finish cooking, we may turn to a social media scroll for a quick distraction. While this isn’t always the most effective strategy for finding our inner calm, a recent study says that our phones could help lessen our anxiety — because consuming a specific type of content may reduce stress just as effectively as meditation does.
Published by the American Psychological Association, the research found that watching short inspirational videos over a five-day period helped lower participants’ stress levels for up to 10 days afterward, and those who meditated for the same amount of time felt the same effects. The key to the anxiety reduction? Feeling hopeful.
“What we found is that even a few minutes of watching content that makes people feel hopeful can put a dent in that stress,” lead author Robin Nabi said in a press release. “It’s a short, simple, and even enjoyable break — and it can make a meaningful difference in helping people feel more optimistic and able to handle what’s in front of them.”
The researchers conducted a four-week-long, online experiment involving about 1,000 adults during the interval between Thanksgiving and Christmas, a stressful time of the year for many Americans. After identifying the participants’ initial stress levels, the team divided them into four groups and gave them “media prescriptions” of either watching professionally-produced inspiring videos, watching comedic content, listening to guided meditations, or scrolling through content of their choice on their mobile device, for three to five minutes a day. A control group was also designated.
While the comedic videos included humor akin to what you’d see in a slapstick skit or on a late-night comedy show, the inspirational media featured stories of people overcoming adversity — for instance, one clip depicted a cancer survivor who’d conquered Mount Everest. The guided meditations consisted of audio samples from videos on the Calm app, and the mobile device group was simply instructed to use their smartphones or computers as they normally would when taking a break or trying to relax.
After the five minutes were up each day, the participants reported their emotional states and stress levels. The comedic videos, while entertaining, didn’t impact stress. But compared to the control group, those who watched the inspirational or guided meditation videos felt significantly more hopeful, which predicted lower stress levels in the following days.
“Hope isn’t just uplifting in the moment,” Nabi said. “It can also motivate people to deal with the challenges in their lives. When people see others overcoming adversity, as they did in our inspiring videos, it can spark the belief that they, too, can persevere, survive, and thrive. That sense of possibility helps counteract stress and can have enduring benefits beyond the simple moment of viewing.”
However, Nabi also noted that these media prescriptions shouldn’t replace meditation or other evidence-supported anxiety-reducing strategies. “But rather, this is one more tool we can add to our toolbox to handle the stress that so many of us feel,” she said.
What to experience the positive effects of inspirational media for yourself? Nice News’ Instagram page may be the perfect place to start.
Stories like this remind us of the power of human ingenuity and compassion. In a world where headlines are often dominated by negativity, it is refreshing to see developments that inspire hope and positive change. The story behind screen time isn’t all bad: inspirational videos may help reduce stress as much as meditation, study finds is one that resonates with people across different backgrounds and cultures, highlighting the universal desire for progress and connection.
Medical breakthroughs continue to reshape our understanding of human health. Researchers around the world are collaborating on innovative treatments and preventive measures that could improve the quality of life for millions of people. From advanced diagnostic tools to personalized medicine, the healthcare landscape is evolving at a remarkable pace. These developments are not just about extending lifespans but also about enhancing the daily well-being of individuals living with chronic conditions or facing new health challenges.
Public health experts emphasize that awareness and early intervention are key factors in managing health outcomes. Community health programs, educational initiatives, and accessible healthcare services play a vital role in ensuring that advancements reach the people who need them most. The integration of technology into healthcare delivery has also opened new possibilities for remote monitoring, telemedicine consultations, and data-driven treatment plans that can be tailored to individual needs.
Scientific discovery has always been driven by curiosity and the desire to understand the world around us. Modern research tools and international collaboration have accelerated the pace of discoveries, leading to breakthroughs that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space, scientists are uncovering secrets that reshape our understanding of the universe and our place within it.
The importance of funding scientific research cannot be overstated. Government grants, private foundations, and university programs all contribute to creating an ecosystem where innovative ideas can be tested and validated. Public engagement with science through museums, documentaries, and educational outreach programs helps build a society that values evidence-based thinking and supports the continued pursuit of knowledge for the benefit of future generations.
Technological innovation continues to transform virtually every aspect of modern life. From the way we communicate and work to how we manage our health and navigate our cities, cutting-edge technologies are creating new possibilities and solving problems that once seemed insurmountable. The rapid pace of development in fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy is opening doors to a future that looks vastly different from even a decade ago.
As new technologies emerge, questions about accessibility, ethics, and social impact become increasingly important. Ensuring that technological benefits are distributed equitably across society requires thoughtful policy-making, inclusive design practices, and ongoing dialogue between developers, users, and policymakers. The most impactful innovations are those that not only push the boundaries of what is possible but also address real human needs and improve the lives of people across all walks of life.
Art and creative expression have always played a fundamental role in how we process emotions, communicate ideas, and build connections across cultures. Whether through visual arts, music, literature, or performance, creative works have the power to inspire, challenge, and heal. In an increasingly digital world, artists are finding new ways to reach audiences and create experiences that bridge traditional and contemporary forms of expression.
Supporting the arts through public funding, community spaces, and educational programs is essential for maintaining a vibrant cultural landscape. Studies have consistently shown that engagement with the arts improves mental health, enhances cognitive abilities, and strengthens community bonds. By valuing and investing in creative endeavors, societies foster innovation, empathy, and a sense of shared identity that enriches the lives of all their members.
The power of community action is evident in countless stories of individuals coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether through organized volunteer programs or spontaneous acts of kindness, these efforts demonstrate the profound impact that compassion and generosity can have on both individuals and entire neighborhoods. Research has consistently shown that communities with strong social connections experience better health outcomes, lower crime rates, and greater overall life satisfaction.
Building stronger communities requires intentional effort and ongoing commitment from people of all ages and backgrounds. Mentorship programs, neighborhood gatherings, and collaborative projects create opportunities for meaningful connection and mutual support. In an era where digital communication often replaces face-to-face interaction, the importance of fostering genuine human connections through community engagement has never been more apparent or more necessary.
Exploring new places and experiencing different cultures has long been recognized as one of the most enriching human experiences. Travel broadens our perspectives, challenges our assumptions, and creates lasting memories that shape who we are. From historic landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant urban centers and quiet rural retreats, every destination offers unique opportunities for discovery and personal growth that cannot be replicated through any other means.
Responsible tourism has become an important consideration as more people travel the globe. Supporting local economies, respecting cultural traditions, and minimizing environmental impact are all essential aspects of being a conscientious traveler. Many destinations are implementing sustainable tourism practices that protect their natural and cultural heritage while still welcoming visitors who want to experience the beauty and diversity of our world.
Looking ahead, developments like the one described in this story offer a glimpse into a future filled with possibility and positive change. While challenges certainly remain, the creativity, determination, and compassion demonstrated by the individuals and organizations involved serve as a powerful reminder that progress is always within reach when people are willing to work together toward a common goal.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, stories like these provide both inspiration and practical examples of how innovation, kindness, and perseverance can make a real difference. By sharing and celebrating these achievements, we not only honor the efforts of those involved but also encourage others to pursue their own ideas for creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
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