Boost Your Immunity with the Power of Positivity

 

by Stacy Walden

In light of recent events, it is especially important to monitor what fills your mind and prioritize your mental health. If you are noticing a pattern of negativity it may be time to seek out ways to boost your mood and get yourself back on track. A few small habits can help you adjust your mindset and start looking at life with a renewed, positive light. Plus positivity has been known to strengthen your immunity which may be just would you need during this time.

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 “at the brighter 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.

How to Stay Positive While Stuck at Home

There are many ways you can practice positive thinking while practicing social distancing. FTD has gathered 12 ways to de-stress and put your health first while staying at home. They’ve even provided printable mantras to serve as a daily reminder to practice mindfulness and add some positivity to your life. 

1. (Virtually) Connect with Positive People

Your closest friends have a huge impact on your positivity. If you surround yourself with negative people, you’ll have a harder time being positive. Try calling or virtually connecting with old friends to lift your spirits. 

2. Find Time for Meditation 

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.

3. Pump Some Jams

Music can increase positive emotions by stimulating the reward center in your brain, causing the release of dopamine to make you feel good. Choose songs throughout the day with lyrics or rhythms that make you happy. 

4. Give Generously

Did you know that making other people happy can make you happy? Make someone’s day by giving your time, money and skills generously.

5. Decorate for Positivity

Your space is where you recharge. A good way to create a positive environment is to decorate with things you love. Pictures and mementos will remind you of happy memories with the most important people in your life.  

6. Smile

The act of smiling, even when there isn’t anything specific to smile about, can change the way you feel. You may feel silly at first but you can actually trick your body to feel happier. 

7. Replace Negative Thoughts

If you find yourself ruminating on negative thoughts, learn ways to replace them with positive ones. Next time you recognize that you’re thinking about something negative, try thinking of one or two positive things to replace it.

8. Add Some Color

Since nature can improve mood, try and bring some natural elements indoors. Adding a bouquet of sunflowers to your counter can brighten up your whole room instantly. Gifting flowers to a friend is also a great way to make someone else’s day, which in turn makes you feel happy.

9. Opt for Mood-Boosting Foods

Food has an enormous effect on your physical health but it can impact your mental health as well. If you notice a pattern of negativity, try foods that contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, omega-3’s and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and folate.

10. Prioritize Sleep

If you’ve ever been grouchy after a poor night of sleep, you know how important rest is for your mood. It’s easier to think positively when your body feels good. So take care of yourself and prioritize getting eight hours of sleep per night. 

11. Open Up

If you feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to open up to a close friend or counselor about your feelings. Talking about the negative thoughts in your mind can be a huge relief and encouragement from your confidant can be strengthening

12. Find a Furry Friend

Pets can provide a sense of support and comfort just by being around. While this isn’t an option for everyone, dogs and cats can be huge sources of positivity for some people. Taking care of another creature helps us put things in perspective.

Sources: Johns Hopkins | Journal of Pediatrics | NCBI | PNAS | The Little Pine | Food Revolution | SAGE