What Research Says about a Positive Attitude

This week we have focused on our

Most of us know the benefits of a positive attitude when it comes to our spiritual health.  But have you ever seen the research done for Physical health as related to your attitude?  I've seen the studies and article before, but never really looked at them in detail.  Mostly because I already know I have to keep my spirit in good shape to keep my physical body in good health.  Let's take a look at a few things I found.  You might think twice about that chocolate cake  negative comment....

From the Mayo Clinic:

The health benefits of positive thinking

Researchers continue to explore the effects of positive thinking and optimism on health. Health benefits that positive thinking may provide include:

• Increased life span
• Lower rates of depression
• Lower levels of distress
• Greater resistance to the common cold
• Better psychological and physical well-being
• Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease
• Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress

It's unclear why people who engage in positive thinking experience these health benefits. One theory is that having a positive outlook enables you to cope better with stressful situations, which reduces the harmful health effects of stress on your body. It's also thought that positive and optimistic people tend to live healthier lifestyles — they get more physical activity, follow a healthier diet, and don't smoke or drink alcohol in excess.
source:  Mayoclinic.com

What stands out to me in the Mayo's list:  longer life span and greater resistance to the common cold!

  I wanted to know what the folks with the medical degrees suggested on how to achieve better health by simply changing ones attitude.  Would you be shocked to know that each suggestion I found has a biblical basis?  Take a look:

Psychology Today suggests:  Take one step at a time.  God says "Do not worry about tomorrow, for it holds its own worries.....Matthew 6:34
PUT IT IN ACTION:  Ask God each morning to guide you through today, to set your feet in flight so that you may accomplish what HE would have you set your hands to today.  Tomorrow, you will ask Him to do the same and tomorrow will take care of itself. 

 Psychology Today suggests:  Find Social Support 

God says "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" Hebrews 10:25

PUT IT IN ACTION: Get connected in your church. Vow to be more than "in a pew on Sunday" by attending other church functions and groups.  

Psychology Today suggests:  Find a Role Model

God says "Teach others to live righteous lives" Titus 2

PUT IT IN ACTION: There is always someone in our lives we can learn from.  Find a person grounded in their walk and learn from them.  Ask their advice from time to time.  Listen to their stories.  Ask them to hold you accountable. 

The list goes on and on.... here are few more but I'll let you excercise your mental health and find God's suggestion for each of the worldy doctor ones: 

Accept Self Doubt....Put It In Its Place
Get Happy
Draw From Your Past
Repeat Affirmations
Visualize
So I am interested to see what you come up with for the suggestions above.  Tell me, what does God say about each?  Post a comment below with your answers!