Did you know there are physical health benefits to being more optimistic? Do you believe some people are naturally born with optimism and others simply aren’t? The good news is that while, yes, some were born with a naturally cheery disposition, others can learn how to be optimistic. Even better news is being optimistic can improve your overall physical health.
Researchers believe that positive thinking may provide these additional health benefits:
- Increased life span
- Lower rates of depression
- Lower levels of stress
- Great resistance to the common cold and other diseases
- Better cardiovascular health
The Benefits of Optimism on Your Physical Health
With a framework of “I think I can/I know I will!”, your workouts, your Pilates routines, and your high intensity interval training will transform before your eyes. With hard work and, more importantly, a dedication to achieving your fitness goals, along with an optimistic attitude, you can can reach your goals.
Once you develop an optimistic mindset and apply it to your routines, the benefits include:
- A more enjoyable workout
- An increased commitment to your workout routine
- Creating momentum and focus on your fitness goals
- Self-confidence helps you succeed in other areas of your life
- Reaching goals by thinking optimistically
- A willingness to take on other challenges in life
- Affirm/embrace your success
- A healthier mind and body
- Improved sleep
- Building your self-esteem
The pessismistic thinker focuses on how hard the workout is or how much they dislike doing it, which keeps their mind focused on the negative and what does not work. This will only make you think and feel the workout is too much work or a downer. You are focusing on how hard it is or not seeing the results as quickly as you would like and could lead to stopping completely. Optimistically focusing on the thought process of “I think I can/I know I will,” keeps your mindset in a forward-moving, goal-setting pace where your goals are more achievable.
The Mind, Body Connection of Optimism
Think about the mind, body connection. Have you ever been disappointed? What does that feel like? It probably feels like a sinking in the pit of your stomach and your shoulders begin to sag. Your emotions, thoughts, and feelings are all stored in your body somewhere. Nervousness can show up as butterflies or an upset stomach. Anxiety can show up as sweaty palms and trembling, while embarrassment shows up with a red flush to your cheeks.
If you want a better body and a better workout, instead of adding more hours to your workout routine, try doing it with lots of optimism instead. If you think you can and know you will, your body and mind will begin to show the results. With more effort and less time, you may begin to see better results. Your mind and body will thank you.
#heyiwanttotrythat
