Why People Who Protest Are Healthier And Happier Than Those Who Don't

This past Saturday, women, men and children around the world took part in the Women's March against Donald Trump.

The exact number? About 3.3 million people.

The March was to serve as a political demonstration against Trump's misogynistic, xenophobic and homophobic policies. These protests were also the largest political demonstration in the US since the Vietnam War.

However, aside from the fact that these protests truly took a stand against Trump's morally and ethically reprehensible policies, it turns out, taking part in them actually made people happier.

Yeah, that's right: You're not only taking part in an amazing cause, but you're also increasing your quality of life.

In his book "The Happiness Hypothesis," author and NYU social psychologist Jonathan Haidt says in order to live a happy life, humans need the following three things: love, work and "a connection to something larger."

To expand upon this point, Haidt compares our community to a "bee hive."

Most of us need to be part of a hive in some way, ideally a hive that has a clearly noble purpose. Religion, teaching, science, political campaigns … these are some of the hives people seek to merge themselves into.

Haidt explains that when people don't have a specific cause to work toward, they often become unhappy. This is why political stands are so important.

Haidt explains that by taking part in a cause or organization that benefits others, your need to be a part of something bigger is realized.

Historically, "any volunteer work can take you out of yourself. But one that has history, traditions and rituals is an easier place to find 'vital engagement,'" he says, referring to the term he uses to define the important relationship a person has with his or her surroundings.

So, if you got out your pussy hat this weekend and made your voice heard, you're in for a happier life than the people who didn't.

Coincidence? I think not.

Citations: The Happiness Hypothesis, The Psychological Importance of Joining a March This Weekend