The effect of positive thinking on health
– 7 amazing benefits –
Our thoughts have amazing power ! This fact is demonstrated by the complex phenomena generated by them. Mental processes and brain activity produce electrical effects, but also the modification, sometimes instantaneous, of physiological parameters. This fact opens unsuspected possibilities in healing . In the following article we will find out what positive thinking is and how it can be practiced. Also, we will know 7 groups of ailments, cured with the help of this way of thinking. We will also find out which plants stimulate positive thinking, improving our quality of life enormously.
Studies in the field of psychophysiology, such as research published in Psychosomatic Medicine (Smith et al., 2019) , highlight the close connection between thoughts and the body’s physiological responses. Thoughts influence the release of stress hormones, and blood pressure can be reduced by practicing positive thinking. Next, we will explore how positive thinking can influence various conditions, drawing on evidence from clinical studies and research.
How can I practice positive thinking?
Positive thinking is like exercise, only it’s mental. It can be viewed as an essential toolkit in our self-care kit for regaining and maintaining physical and mental health. We have selected three types of exercises that, done long-term, help you regain your health, but also improve your life, from the ground up.
3 POSITIVE THINKING TRAINING EXERCISES THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE
1. Cognitive reframing
It’s a quick and intense technique that helps you change your perspective on negative situations. It’s like wearing sunglasses for your mind, filtering out the negative light and letting only the positive rays reach your consciousness. For example, if a student got a bad grade on an important test, they will feel bad. But through negative reframing you get to, “I got a bad grade, I’m a total failure. I’ll never make it.” As simplistic as it may seem, positive reframing improves the functioning of the brain and body. Positive reframing: “I got a lower grade myself, but I see it as an opportunity to learn, to focus. I know what I need to work on more, I ask for more help and I can change the learning method. Frustration now it helps me become stronger for future tests.”
2. Positive affirmations
They can be likened to a “fuel” for the mind. They give us energy and strength to face trials with confidence and determination. Simply saying them internally, but with conviction, dozens of times a day, can help enormously. Examples of positive affirmations: “My mind and body are working and supporting physical and emotional healing.” or “Each day increases my understanding and acceptance, bringing me mental and physical health.”
3. Meditation and mindfulness
It constitutes a deeper training of the mind. Meditation involves focusing attention on breathing and thoughts, quieting the mind. Mindfulness involves being aware of the present, noticing sensations and thoughts carefully, without judgment. By practicing them regularly, you train yourself to be calm and focused, reducing stress and anxiety, with amazing physiological effects, as we’ll see:
⇒ The benefits of positive thinking in depression
Depression is a serious mental health problem, but positive thinking can provide support. Clinical studies, including the one published in “American Psychologist” (Seligman et al., 2006) have demonstrated that therapy based on positive thinking significantly reduces symptoms of depression.
⇒ Positive thinking and Cancer patients
Cancer patients can benefit from positive thinking to improve health and manage stress. A study in the publication “Cancer” (Stanton et al., 2015) shows that positive reframing, positive affirmations and meditation techniques improve the quality of life, but also the survival rate of patients.
⇒ Reducing cardiovascular risk through positive thinking
Cardiovascular disease is a major problem, but positive thinking can have a positive impact on heart health. A study published in “Circulation” (DuBois et al., 2019), indicates that positive thinking contributes to lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of complications.
⇒ Blood sugar control with the help of positive thinking in diabetes
Diabetes requires constant management, and positive thinking can facilitate this process. According to a study in Diabetic Medicine (Huffman et al., 2017 ), optimism contributes to diabetes management and maintaining glycemic control.
⇒ Pain reduction in rheumatoid arthritis through positive thinking
This inflammatory rheumatic disease causes severe pain and stiffness and is difficult to control with anti-inflammatory drugs. But practicing positive thinking and relaxation techniques can reduce discomfort, according to a study in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (Evers et al., 2018).
⇒ Positive thinking against chronic fatigue syndrome
Chronic fatigue affects the daily life of many people. A study in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (Petersen et al., 2020) shows that positive thinking and stress management can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Also, positive thinking helps to restore performance at work, but also to improve family relationships.
⇒ Positive Thinking in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD )
PTSD is a serious condition that requires support. According to a study in the Journal of Traumatic Stress (Follette et al., 2019) , positive thinking therapy can help patients cope with symptoms and improve quality of life.
Plant extracts for stimulating positive thinking
Medicinal plants, in turn, can actively and often decisively support this positive and healing way of thinking. Species such as griffonia, St. John’s wort stimulate the production of serotonin and dopamine which stimulate a positive mood and thinking. In turn, rosemary activates areas in the brain that help us analyze situations correctly, eliminating negative, pessimistic interpretations. See HERE details about the products Telom-R Emotions , Rozmarin Neuro and Emopozitiv , with these ingredients that facilitate positive thinking. They are products that, metaphorically speaking, can gradually heal both the soul and the body.
Positive thinking can bring significant benefits to our physical and mental health, according to clinical studies. However, it is important to remember that positive thinking cannot replace medical treatment or psychological therapy in severe cases. However, by developing and promoting positive thinking, we can contribute to improving the quality of life and health. Often decisively!