Positive Power
We all talk to ourselves, but have you ever stopped and really listened to the conversations you have with yourself? The concept of positive thinking has been out there for ages but can “turning that frown upside down” really have a profound effect on our overall well-being? Scientifically, this hypothesis has been well supported in some research and not at all in others. But here’s the thing: can a sunny outlook on life prevent or even cure cancer? Maybe that’s a stretch BUT research has found that optimists in general, are healthier. Looking at the bright side of life allows one to enjoy it more and thus increases one’s quality of life. An emotional state of happiness and even laughter releases those same wonderful hormones and endorphins which are released during exercise, and give us that natural (and legal) high. Positive thinkers tend to deal with stressful situations by being more resilient and more adaptable. They also don’t tend to dwell on unpleasant situations. Some research has shown that being positive can improve one’s immunity and subsequently fight off common ailments like colds and the flu. Finally, those with positive outlooks are less likely to fall into episodes of depression, which is associated with numerous health risks such as heart disease and weight gain.
On the other hand, negativity, negative self-talk and thoughts are just as toxic to our health as trans fats, sugars, white bread, artificial flavors and colors, pre-packaged and processed anything and … well you get the picture. Those little negative comments that just automatically pop into our heads or out of our mouths can be lethal whether they are about our appearance, intelligence or actions. It’s easy to fall prey to pessimistic thinking, just like poor eating and exercise habits. These toxic thoughts are like a cancer that spreads, unbeknownst to you until it’s too late. Before you know it, not only are you completely unhappy with everything about yourself but also with those and the whole world around you. It’s a vicious downward spiral that can be hard to crawl out of – but not impossible.
Like maintaining healthy nutrition and regular exercise, altering your thought process takes discipline, strength, patience and most of all, awareness. If you catch yourself in a negative thought or comment, stop it immediately and follow up with one or more POSITIVE comments. Don’t focus on what you perceive as faults, focus and celebrate your triumphs. Surround yourself with positive people and take some time daily to identify 5 things you’re grateful for. Studies have shown that acting happy can actually make you feel happy just as feeling happy causes you to act happy. The next time “life” interferes with your best laid plans, turn that frown upside down and maybe things won’t seem quite so bad.
