The mind can be a very powerful tool. Over the recent decades, there has been much talk about positive psychology and the workings of the mind. The belief is that the more you are grateful for, the more you will have to be grateful for in your future. Thinking positively is equated with drawing even more positive things into your life.
What does this all have to do with aging? Well, research and studies are showing that the way we choose to think will have a direct impact on how we react to the changes of aging.
There are three main ways how thinking positively can help in the anti-aging process.
1. Resilience
Resilience is better known as bouncing back. The greater your resilience is, the greater your chances are for a successful life. When you think positively, it helps with your resilience.
Everyone but everyone has a setback or disappointment and even an unexpected life event; however, how an individual reacts to such events is key to keeping the mind, body, and spirit alive and active.
When you are resilient, you have the ability to take another look at the situation at hand. When one door closes, you can see an opportunity as perhaps a window opening. Getting right back up no matter how many times you fall is an important component of being resilient.
Being resilient in your younger years absolutely equips you to face those changes that come (what seems like) fast and furiously in your older years.
2. Being Positive
Having a positive mindset is something that for certain individuals comes easily. For others, however, it is not so straightforward. The good news is that being positive is something that you can learn, although it does take some training of the mind and a bit of practice.
Individuals who practice positivity in his or her early years, have a tendency to keep that sunnier disposition throughout the aging process. Having a positive outlook, knowing that you lived your life as best as you could – mistakes and all – is a benefit for you as you age.
Learning to have a positive outlook and making it a part of your nature equips you to better face unexpected health issues, changes, and the losses that inevitably occur in later years.
3. A Health Benefit
Who would have thought that thinking positively would have health benefits. Studies show that the simple act of smiling or listening to happy music may have an impact on an individual’s health.
The release of certain chemicals to the brain can create a happier and healthier individual.
A happier and healthier individual is more likely to age more successfully than an individual who is negative.
So, as you can see, learning the art of positivity and practicing it may just be good for your health.