Health Benefits of a Positive Attitude
University of California
researchers found that actors could influence their immune
systems by the emotions they portrayed. There are studies
upon studies done by the likes of Harvard, Duke University,
University of Chicago, etc. showing a direct relationship
between improved health, extended life, an overall sense of
well being and having a positive, happy attitude towards life.
Championing the idea of optimism are musical bands like the
Beatles who sang, "All You Need Is Love" and the popular Dave
Mathews Band who poetically cites, "from the dark side we
can see a glow of something bright."
Yes, the clich's true, life is going to throw out some lemons,
but turning those lemons into lemonade is one of the most
important keys to maintaining good health. It is also important
to find humor in even the most difficult situations. "Humor
stimulates laughter. And we know that physiological stimulation
through laughter leads to a number of health benefits. It
appears to reduce stress; it tends to boost immunoglobulin
A (an antibody that fights upper respiratory disease); and
it tends to boost killer T-cells, which are antibodies that
fight infection." Steven M. Sultanoff Ph.D.
Today, most everyone lives very hectic lives: rushing around
in the mornings, working long stressful days, then coming
home and trying to maintain the household. With all of this
looming pressure, how can anyone focus on having a proactive
"positive" attitude versus a reactive "pending the situation"
attitude?
Well, first off when negative thoughts come to mind or when
negative situations present themselves take a deep breath
and resolve to move past it, let it go. "Yes, I am stuck in
traffic for the 2nd time this week, tomorrow I will simply
leave half an hour earlier, and bring my favorite CD to listen
to." Also, nurturing relationships of all kinds (family, friends,
a significant other, co-workers, neighbors, etc.) aids in
stress reduction as well as provides a sense of connectedness.
Even though time is always an issue, volunteering can be one
of the best ways to promote feelings of good, solid happiness.
Other ways to help you stay in a good mood are:
- Try new experiences and challenge yourself
- Devote time to doing activities that
you enjoy
- Watch less television
- Savor the moment, quality counts as much
as quantity
For the sake of
your health and for those around you, relax, smile, and tell
a joke. And if you can't convince those around you to share
the same pleasant outlook, then find someone else to spend
your time with. It is a proven fact that we are what we think
--- so put good thoughts into your mind. Try a smile on for
size and if you had spinach for lunch, laugh about it.
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