Happiness can make you Healthier

Aristotle said “happiness is the meaning and purpose of all life, the whole aim and end of human existence” – 2000 years later, these words are just as relevant today.  The meaning of happiness can be different for everyone but it is generally regarded as the experience of positive emotions – it’s that feeling that overcomes you when you know life is good and you can’t help but smile!

There is an emerging amount of research that shows that being happy doesn’t just put a smile on your dial – it also brings a list of potential health benefits. Bonus!!

Studies suggest that people with a positive psychological wellbeing tend to eat healthier diets high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and tend to engage in more physical activity (1). Eating healthier and exercising can have profound effects on your physical health by helping to maintain a healthy weight, increasing energy levels and lowering the risk of diseases.

Happiness can boost your immune system. A study found that people who had positive emotions had better resistance to the common cold and had fewer symptoms (2). Plus, positive thinking and behaviours can produce effective coping strategies that reduce the perception of pain.

Happiness can help you reduce stress. A study of over 200 adults found that the cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in the happiest individuals were 32% lower than for unhappy participants (3).

People who experience more positive emotions rather than negative emotions in everyday life are more likely to live longer (4).

So if you ever needed a reason to smile – let your health be it!

HERE SOME OF MY TOP TIPS FOR BEING HAPPY:

1. Train your brain – your mind believes what you tell it, so tell it positive things! Remember, the happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.
2. Express your gratitude – wake up every morning and be grateful for the life you are creating for yourself. Write down at the end of the day something or someone you are grateful for.
3. Seek out and nurture your healthy relationships.
4. Practice mindfulness – meditate.
5. Practice kindness everyday.
6. Take care of your health – eat a healthy diet and ensure adequate time for sleep and restoration.
7. My best tip is to work with a functional practitioner that specialises in health and mindset. 

If you, or someone you know would benefit from working with a functional practitioner and a mindset coach, we would love to help. Click here to find out more.