Understanding the connection between positivity and physical health

Does being healthy make you happy, or does being happy make you healthy? How are these two aspects of wellbeing connected? 

The science behind positive thinking 

Positive emotions contribute to our wellbeing but can also have an impact on our physical health. Multiple studies have shown that there’s a direct connection between health and outlook; researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health have found that positivity is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Another study has shown that people with a more positive outlook were quicker to recover from traumatic physical illness. Researchers have also noted that a positive mood might have an effect on immune system functions and heart health. 

How exercise affects your mood 

The endorphins released through exercise can make you happy, and feeling healthy makes it easier to be positive about the future. So, if you’re looking for a healthier lifestyle, positive thinking might be a good place to start. 

The physical impact of negative thoughts 

Negative thinking can have an adverse effect on the body. At times, you might find yourself thinking “nothing matters, I might as well skip an exercise session” or “I know it’s nice outside and a walk would be good, but I can’t be bothered right now.” Negative thinking, or worry, can also have the following impacts on the body: 

• muscle tension and muscle pain 

• headaches 

• digestive problems 

• chest pain 

• reduced libido or sex drive 

• sleep problems 

• fatigue 

Physical changes like these can help you recognise your mental health might be at risk. If you’ve been experiencing any of the above symptoms, it might be worthwhile to consider how your thinking habits may be playing a role. 

Practical steps to better wellbeing 

You may find it useful to: 

Manage your moods. Take practical steps to start your day with an upbeat attitude and keep it going. You could practise giving yourself a daily positive affirmation when you wake up. Or remind yourself to take “mindful moments” by taking quick pauses to breathe and get centred as you go about the rest of your day. 

Cultivate positivity. You can foster positivity in yourself. As Martin Seligman wrote in his book Learned Optimism: "Anytime you find yourself down or anxious or angry, ask what you are saying to yourself. Sometimes the beliefs will turn out to be accurate. When this is so, concentrate on the ways you can alter the situation and prevent adversity from becoming disaster. Your negative beliefs are usually distortions. Challenge them. Don't let them run your emotional life." Basically, positive people tend to see themselves as having the power to overcome challenges. 

Keep a list of helpful thoughts and messages. Whenever you come across a helpful and positive idea or quote that makes sense to you, write it down. These may be positive thoughts, calming thoughts, humour - anything that you notice really helps put you in a better mood. Add these to your "library" of messages to draw from every morning to begin your day. 

Surround yourself with people who give you a boost. Both positivity and negativity can be highly contagious. Which would you want to catch? Spend time with those who bring out the joy and positivity in you. 

The benefits of positive living 

Positivity and physical health are closely related. Making the time and effort to cultivate positivity can bring some of the following health benefits, to name a few: 

• lower stress levels 

• reduced risk of heart disease 

• enhanced immune function 

• increased longevity 

The evidence is clear - investing in your wellbeing, through both positive thinking and healthy habits can lead to a healthier, happier life.