Every so often, it’s a good idea to evaluate your mental health. Given the current state of our society, now is the time to monitor what consumes your mind. If you’ve noticed a pattern of negativity, it might be time to make a few changes. Your outlook on life has been proven to affect your mental and physical health and there are many ways to boost your immunity just by smiling or practicing mindfulness.
What Can Positivity Do For Us?
Thinking positively can affect more than just our mind but also our physical health. Shifting your mindset is easier said than done however, looking “on the bright side” of life could boost your immune system and save you a trip to the doctor. Studies have shown that staying positive is linked to a 73% lowered risk of heart failure and just thinking positively can lead to a 50% reduction of depressive symptoms. According to a University of Kansas study, even smiling can bring about more positive feelings within the body. Take your daily dose of positivity by trying some of the following ways to boost your mood and live a happier, healthier life.
Ways To Add Positivity to Your Daily Routine…
Every day is an opportunity to reset and perfect your daily routine to encourage positive thinking! We know life throws stressors at you (work, family, finances) but for your health, it is still important to prioritise staying positive!
- In the morning: Practice mindfulness by incorporating some quiet meditation time for yourself. Here are seven ways to Create a mindful morning routine.
- During lunch: Liven up your day with some upbeat music that’s sure to put a smile on your face and a pep in your step.
- In the afternoon: Take a short break to allow yourself to get creative or enjoy a hobby you love or just take a moment to water your plants.
- In the evening: Get those endorphins going by trying a virtual exercise class, yoga routine or put on some fun music and dance while you cook dinner.
- At night: Write in a gratitude journal to appreciate all the things you do have.
How Can You Stay Positive While Stuck at Home?
There are many ways you can practice positive thinking whilst also practicing social distancing. Read the ways below for inspiration on how to de-stress and put your health first while staying home!
Take a Daily Dose of Gratitude
Consciously making an effort to be grateful will get you in the habit of noticing the good things in your life instead of focusing on the bad
Give Your Heart Some Slack
Though making an effort to be more positive is a great goal, sometimes life is hard. If you experience loss, grief or frustration from circumstances out of your control, allow yourself time to process. Feel the feelings and be gentle with yourself.
Choose Your Personal Mantra
One of the easiest ways to shift your brain to a positive mindset is to speak truths to yourself. For inspiration, FTD has created free printable mantras to set you in the right direction.
Find Time for Meditation Moments
Meditation can be intimidating for people who are unfamiliar with the practice but it’s actually very simple. Start by taking five minutes to sit in silence and focus only on your breathing. You can sample some brilliant guided meditations on these three mindfulness apps.
Give Generously
Did you know that making other people happy can make you happy? Taking time out of your day to think of others not only benefits the recipient, but it also shifts your perspective.
Surround Yourself with Positive People (Virtually)
Your closest friends have a huge impact on your positivity. Call or Facetime them during your downtime.
Today, prioritize making time for yourself that will boost your mood and do your health and heart some good!
The Fabulous Times
Sources: Johns Hopkins | Journal of Pediatrics | NCBI | PNAS | The Little Pine | Food Revolution | SAGE
