The health risks of........negativity.
The average adult has 300 negative thoughts per day, about 1 ever 2 1/2 minutes (www.suite101.com).
Being content is tough sometimes. We've all been there. No doubt.
We all have anxiety about money, relationships, work, kids, family, and health. Life isn't easy sometimes.
Negativity is "characterized by the absence of distinguishing or marked qualities or features; lacking positive attributes (opposed to positive ): a dull, lifeless, negative character (www.dictionary.com). In other words, we fail to see the beauty in life.
So, what are the health risks of being a 'Debbie Downer'?
- Negativity may impact your immune system. The National Academy of Sciences linked negative brain activity to a "weakened immune system" (news.bbc.com).
- Negativity may affect your memory. Researching are discovering that negativity can affect the shape of our brain, and whether or not we suffer from memory problems later in life (suite101.com).
- Negativity may cause weight gain. "Comfort food" has this name for a reason. Many of us struggle to keep our diet in check, especially when we're not feeling 100%.
- Negativity may also be linked to cancer, ulcers, panic attacks, headaches, asthma, skin problems, heart disease, and the list could go on and on.
What can we do to stay positive and healthy?
- Try to get all the proper nutrients needed in your diet, especially from fruits and veggies. Peace out processed foods! Get into eating more raw and nutritious foods. Drink smoothies. Cut down on meat. Eat more spinach. Its going to keep you feeling more positive, full of energy, and will keep your immunity strong.
- Exercise. "Endorphins are a neurotransmitter that have a direct impact on our mood. Produced by the pituitary gland during exercise, endorphins are essentially an opiate that creates a feeling of overall well-being" (informationgateway.org). Heck, walking is nice. It's Spring! Do it.
- Sleep. Sleep and mood are closely connected; poor or inadequate sleep can cause irritability and stress, while healthy sleep can enhance well-being (healthysleep.med.harvard.eu).
- Stay in touch and give to your community. Keep up with friendships that are fruitful. Stay connected. One of the greatest sources of comfort is knowing we aren't alone in our joys and struggles.
- Pray. Pubmed research: "One hundred and seventy-five breast cancer survivors participated in a longitudinal study of survivorship. Women completed in-depth qualitative interviews and a battery of measures including quality of life, spirituality, social support, and mood. Certain groups seem to find more comfort in prayer, felt closer to God, and felt more compassion and forgiveness" (Pubmed Online). Maybe it's time more of us got on our knees?
- Count your blessings. Write down the things you are thankful for. You'll realize, what you've been given is an amazing gift.
- Surround yourself with hopeful and positive things: Be aware of your mood when you watch certain tv shows or movies. Even articles or books can make you feel low. Make a point of surrounding yourself with positive people, books, movies and music.
If you are seriously struggling with depression, check out Depression Ontario for support.
Need help making a lifestyle change? Alisa Herriman is a local Nutritionist who can support you with nutritional therapy. Check out the Nutrinity Health Services website at: www.alisaherriman.com
References
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/negativity?s=t
http://www.apple-a-day-clinic.com/15.html?m8:post=how-does-negativity-affect-your-health
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/3198935.stm
http://www.nutritionj.com/content/9/1/26
http://www.informationgateway.org/positive-effects-exercise-mood/
http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/need-sleep/whats-in-it-for-you/mood
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16155779
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