by Leslie Denton-Roach

Many people have a difficult time staying positive, and according to recent studies, this may affect their physical and mental health. Negative emotions like anger and depression can sap the immune system, encourage heart trouble, and delay recovery from illness.

Developing a positive attitude
Here are some ways to help develop a more positive attitude:

Sleep: Getting enough sleep each night is essential to maintaining a healthy level of mental and emotional clarity. When you’ve had a good night of sound sleeping, you feel good and function more effectively. Be sure to turn off all lights when you sleep because the production of melatonin, a hormone involved in sleep/repair cycles, may decrease if you sleep with them on.

Laughter: Studies suggest that regular doses of humor or laughter can enhance breathing and circulation and even stimulate T-cells, boosting the immune system. Laughter releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which help ease pain and can even cause feelings of euphoria. Allowing yourself to laugh or find humor each day can create a positive outlook.

Exercise: According to the Mayo Clinic, just 10 minutes of moderate exercise can improve your mood. Like laughter, exercising releases endorphins and helps sustain a happy mood. Set small goals and improve your confidence by accomplishment. A side benefit could be the loss of extra pounds, which can lead to increased self-esteem and make you feel more positive about yourself.

Stress: Overstressed people tend to be preoccupied, irritable or angry, unable to enjoy life’s small pleasures, and bothered by aches and pains unrelated to illness.

Learn to manage your stress by making a mental list of your stress contributors. Set priorities and eliminate activities that are not necessary. Ask for help from others and focus on doing one thing at a time.

Listen: Tune into your inner dialogue and learn to recognize your negative thought patterns.

Negative thoughts can seriously impact the way you behave. Instead of saying, “I could never do that,” try to stay positive by focusing on small goals that can be accomplished successfully.