Eliminate Stress
You have probably heard this before. Stress
is a key contributor to poor health. Study
after study has found that when a person is
stressed, the body reacts. The result of
stress could be high-blood pressure, tension
headaches, upset stomachs, poor posture, and
so on. Keeping stress in check will help you
manage your overall health much better.
Sleep
Does sleep really affect health? You bet it
does. During sleep, your body is resting and
recovering from all the work is has done
throughout the day. Your serotonin levels
are brought back in line, your muscles
relax, and mind is allowed to clear itself
in preparation for the next day. If you are
not getting the proper amount of sleep, you
will notice it in a physical way. While
there is no magic number, usually between
six and eight hours a night is appropriate.
If you have difficulty getting to sleep,
before you climb into bed, try Yoga,
listening to soft, relaxing music, a glass
of wine, or if you can talk someone into it,
a good massage.
Laugh it Off
The medical field has proven that
laughter actually works with your body toward good health. Have
you ever heard the expression, “Laughter is the best medicine”?
The truth is, when you laugh, several positive things happen.
Your muscles relax; stress hormone product is reduced; you
forget about pain; your body’s immune system is improved;
high-blood pressure is lowered; the heart and lungs are
strengthened; and overall, you feel better!
Young at Heart
Regardless of your age, if you start
acting too old, you will actually not benefit yourself at all.
Studies have shown that people who act old, feel old, and can
actually suffer from problems before their time. Do not be
afraid to be youthful, within reason. The next time you see a
man in his seventies running a marathon or a woman keeping up in
aerobic class, you can see that by refusing to give into age,
they are healthier and live much longer lives.
Attitude
A negative attitude can have a negative impact on your health
just as a positive attitude can affect your health in a positive
manner. Living well has a direct correlation with a positive
outlook. Keep smiling and try to find the good in life, even
when things are tough.
Make Time for Intimacy
If you are married, be sure to make time for intimacy in your
relationship. Sex is a great stress reducer and keeps a marriage
happy. Sex is healthy act that should be enjoyed.
Some like it Hot
Hot, spicy foods that contain curry, chilies, or other hot
peppers such as
cayenne, help to trigger endorphins. These hormones are what
make
people feel good and well balanced. In fact, endorphins are like
a natural
morphine that helps ease pain and provide a sense of well being.
The next time you are feeling a little down or have some minor
pain, try eating something spicy.
