What are emotions?

Emotions are physiological and mental responses that have evolved to help people adapt to – and survive within – their environment. For instance, when people are faced with a dangerous situation they experience an increase in their heart rate and a shut-down of their digestive system – the "fear" response. This prepares them to run away from, or confront, whatever's going on. In this respect feelings are like a guide that can help people successfully navigate their way through life.

But feelings are also much more than that – they are what make life worth living. Without emotions such as happiness, excitement and love, life would seem grey and empty. Just as it is important, therefore, to develop one's physical health, so it is important to develop one's emotional health. After all, there's little point in being fit and lean, eating all the right foods, and getting enough sleep if you're also constantly bored, stressed or depressed.