Optimism: It does a body good!

[tgellenbeck]

This topic came to mind last night when my husband was HOPING for LeBron & the Cavs to pull off a miracle, but pessimistically (some might say realistically) was saying they would likely not win. Isn’t your mind like a magnet? Aren’t you supposed to think positive thoughts to bring positive things into your life? We have had this debate many times and always agree to disagree.

Google defines Optimism as “hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.” Did you know studies and experts also link optimism to improved physical health?

According to research, Optimists may…

have healthier hearts
have better cholesterol
handle stress better
have stronger immunity including increased resistance to the common cold
have a lower risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease
have lower rates of depression
live longer

These benefits provide ample reasons that we should all be optimists! But even if they are all a hoax, isn’t living a happier, more positive life worth it anyhow?

A previous guest blogger, SK Palmer, also had some thoughts on the subject…

“They say optimism is the key to life and that might literally be the case. Recent studies have uncovered that optimists are living longer, leading healthier lifestyles, and overall having a better impact on people. They’re also less likely to smoke and abuse any harmful substances that could develop cancer.

But why is this important? Well, it increases your chances of being happier of course! They find small things in life and make the best out of every situation. And not only in doing this, they usually encourage others to be enthusiastic about their own lives.

Optimists are most likely to get jobs – companies thrive on that go getting attitude that they present so well. You may also find it to be easier for you to complete tasks, like working out, eating healthy, and accomplishing your goals. It may not seem like this at first, but if you continue to push through and look at the bright side of things, then no doubt you will be happy!”

In closing, remember this. Even EYORE tried to stay positive [sometimes].