How to Keep Smiling and Enjoy the Healthy Benefits
By Sandy Schroeder
Most of us know a few people who just seem to walk on air. They are always smiling, and they never lose their cool. We also know people who always have something negative to add and never smile.
Finding out how “walking on air” works may be one of the healthiest things we can do, according to Harvard Health researchers. They say positive attitudes link to greater longevity and better mental and physical health.
Dr. Katlin Hagan and Dr. Eric Kim, Harvard researchers, just completed a huge study on optimism. Analyzing data drawn from the eight-year Nurses’ Health Study of 70,000 women, they found optimistic women had a significantly reduced risk of dying from several major causes of death, compared with less optimistic women.
Research also says positive attitudes are sparked by upbeat views like these.
Treat Yourself with Care – Get enough sleep and eat healthy. Stay active, and focus on your strengths. Give yourself credit for all of your efforts, and put your energy into the things you really value.
Retreat to Favored Spots – When you are having doubts, recharge at a favored haven. It could be a quiet park, bookstore, flea market or coffee house. Whatever works.
Keep a Daily Tally of Good Stuff – Keep a journal of positives and relfect on ways to keep them going.
Cross Out the Negatives – If your thoughts darken, switch on some upbeat tunes or watch the funniest movie you can.
Help Where You Can – As global news swirls about, it may be frustrating to just watch. Instead, look for local ways to help locally. Donate to support groups, volunteer at a local hospital, or help a senior regain lost footing.
Step Away and Refocus – Learning to focus on the moment, without judging it, is known as mindfulness meditation. It can be as simple as sitting on your patio, watching the hummingbirds, and letting your thoughts stream by. Later, as you shift back into your day, it may all seem much easier.
Gravitate to Positive People - We all know how much better we feel when we call a friend who always makes us laugh, or hang out with friends who always have a good time.
Whatever positive techniques you choose, keep them up for a week, and enjoy the difference.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.