Have you ever thought about how your attitude affects your health?
Did you know that having a negative, pessimistic attitude can bring about chronic stress, which, in turn, can lead to increased inflammation, impairing the immune system and increasing risks of disease?
Did you know that having an optimistic, positive attitude actually helps keep you healthy?
When you have a positive attitude, it enables you to cope better with stressful situations, which reduces the harmful health effects of stress on your body.
Researchers continue to find compelling evidence that a positive attitude has beneficial effects to our health including:
A longer life span
Lower levels of distress and pain
Lower rates of depression
Less susceptibility to airborne illnesses such as colds
Better cardiovascular health
Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress
Increased immunity
When we are aware that our attitude impacts our health and we want to improve it, what can we do?
Here are 4 ways to cultivate a positive attitude and encourage authentic, optimistic thinking:
Express gratitude. Gratitude helps. Dedicate a few minutes each day thinking about—or writing down—3 things you’re grateful for.
Imagine your best possible self. Imagine your best possible self and how you want your life to feel. Spend a few minutes each day imagining yourself flourishing and thriving. You could even write it down as a story, let your imagination soar.
Focus on and share good news. There are many things in your life that are going right. Seek those out; think about all that’s going well and don’t forget to share the positive news with your friends and family.
Practice positive self-talk. Don’t say something to yourself that you wouldn’t say to a good friend. Don’t call yourself names or attach a negative label to yourself. Practice being compassionate, kind, and encouraging with yourself.
When it comes to your health, your thoughts, feelings, and attitude matter.
A positive attitude doesn't mean living in denial of challenging situations. Rather, it allows you to intentionally remain hopeful and look for the good while being open to the growth that difficult situations can provide.
I’ve found that when I have a positive, optimistic attitude, I feel better about myself and my life circumstances and it’s easier to love myself more, work through challenges, and come out of self-limiting beliefs.
The benefits of a positive attitude are vast and when we anticipate good health and vitality, it fills us with energy, love, and possibility.
So here’s to a positive attitude and good health!
Oh! And it's not too late to take the brief wellness survey I created for you.
Love, Your Wellness Coach,
Alyssa
P.S. Want to take this topic deeper? Tune into today’s podcast episode 65, "How Your Attitude Affects Your Health."
P.P.S. Here's the link to the 2-minute survey again. I created so I can learn about you and your interests in my nutrition and wellness offerings. Thank you for filling it out.
March 23, 2022
