Having an upbeat outlook is certainly helpful to withstand the stresses of daily life. But can a good attitude actually lead to good health? According to new research, even when considering major factors such as smoking, age and gender, there may still be a link between happy people and healthy bodies.
There are several reasons why these findings are generally believable. First of all, people who describe themselves as positive or happy are probably more likely to engage in positive lifestyle activities that can contribute to overall wellness, such as healthy eating and exercise.
Another major component of the happiness/healthiness link is the effect of stress on the body. From traffic jams to financial woes, the burdens of everyday life can cause a great deal of stress, which may negatively affect health. It is possible that happier people are healthier because they are either not exposed to stressful situations or are less likely to be greatly affected by them.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that a goofy grin is all you need to stay well””there is no “magic bullet” when it comes to health and longevity. Optimism is just another tool in the arsenal of health-helping behaviors, which includes a healthy, balanced diet with ample amounts of vitamins and minerals, regular exercise, plenty of sleep and so much more.
So next time you’re stuck in traffic and feel your blood start to boil, just grin and bear it””your health will thank you!