5 Secret Ways to Use Your Mind to Strengthen and Heal Your Body
There's a strong connection between the way your brain thinks and the way your body feels.
Just like you can use your body to lessen your psychological distress, you can also use your mind to improve your body.
Changing the way you think and taking charge of what occupies your mind, can strengthen your physical health and well-being.
While positive thinking won't cure everything, a healthy mindset is a basic component of a healthy body.
Here are five ways you can use your mind to strengthen and heal your body:
1. Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease by Laughing
If you are eager to build a healthier heart, think about something funny.
Studies show laughter decreases stress hormones, increases "good" cholesterol, and reduces artery inflammation.
Perhaps laughter really is the best medicine—the positive effects of laughter last 24 hours.
2. Sleep Better By Writing in a Gratitude Diary
If you're struggling with insomnia, a gratitude diary might be the best cure.
Several studies have link gratitude to better quality and longer-lasting sleep.
Identify three things you're grateful for and write them in a gratitude diary before you go to bed.
Conjuring up feelings of thankfulness and gratitude right before you fall asleep will increase the chances you'll get a good night's rest.
3. Live Longer By Focusing On Your Purpose in Life
Feeling like you have a sense of purpose could increase the length of your life.
Studies show people who believe their lives are meaningful are more likely to live healthier and longer lives.
Whether your occupation gives you a purpose, or you find meaning as a volunteer, make sure whatever you're doing matters.
Feeling like you have a reason to get out of bed every day might be the secret to longevity.
4. Be Optimistic and Boost Your Immunity
Studies show that optimistic people are less likely to get sick.
For decades, researchers thought the boost in immunity stemmed from the fact that optimistic people were more likely to take care of their health.
But, more recent studies have shown that a hopeful outlook actually influences immunity.
Looking on the bright side makes you less likely to get a cold or infection as optimism keeps your immune system performing at its peak.
5. Slow Aging with Meditation
Meditation always provides a generous buffer against the harmful effects stress can have on your body.
A lot of studies have shown meditation slows the rate of cellular aging.
Not only meditation helps you stay looking youthful, but it helps you ward off age-related disease.
And no matter what age you are, it's never too late to gain some health benefits from meditation.
Conclusion
Your mind can be your best asset or on the other hand your worst enemy!
Changing the way you think and taking into consideration what occupies your mind, can strengthen your physical health and well-being.
Everyone has the ability to build mental strength.
With practice, mental exercises could be the key to living a longer, happier life.