Healthy and happy, happy and healthy—does one element of personal wellbeing come before the other? Does being healthy have an impact on being happy, and vice-versa?
The science behind positive thinking
Positive emotions contribute to our wellbeing but can also impact 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 positive thinking is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular events. One study showed 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 optimistic about the future. So, if you’re looking for a healthier lifestyle, positive thinking might be a good place to start!
In contrast, negative thinking can have an adverse effect on the body. At times you might find yourself thinking, “Nothing matters; I might as well skip a workout” 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:
Physical changes like these can help you recognize 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 might find it useful to:
Manage your moods. Take practical steps to start your day with an upbeat attitude and keep it going. You might practise giving yourself a daily positive affirmation when you wake up or remind yourself to take “mindful moments”—quick pauses to breathe and get centred—as you go about the rest of your day.
Cultivate optimism. You can foster optimism 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. But usually, your negative beliefs are distortions. Challenge them. Don't let them run your emotional life." In short, optimists tend to perceive 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 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 optimism in you.
The benefits of positivity
Positivity and physical health are closely related. Making the time and effort to cultivate positivity can provide several health benefits, to name a few:
So what are you waiting for? Invest in your wellbeing today!