Love Yourself With Health Habits: Week 4
Tip #4: Connecting & Laughing
Anyone else feeling rundown this time of year? Even with a healthy diet, plenty of
liquids, and physical activity, there may be other parts of the equation just as important.
I refer to them as “primary foods” and these are things that give you that drive in life.
Laughter and social connections are one category and just might be the missing link if
you are drinking your green smoothies but not feeling the full effect. Although the
definitive research for the possible health benefits of laughter has not been done yet, it
certainly isn’t hurting us.
There are some physiological changes when we laugh and some experts believe
laughing may produce some of the benefits you get from exercise. Laughter can
increase our pulse and blood pressure, make us breathe faster, and initiate a stress
relief response, which if you have been tuned into this months blogs, can also change
how your body physiologically functions. I’m not suggesting substituting your physical
activity with watching Comedy Central, but try walking with a friend and laughing about
your day instead of going it alone. Think of it as food for the soul!
Research aside, reflect on how you feel after you’ve had a good laugh. Often times
when I feel stressed, anxious, or start to obsess over something, I step back and reflect
over what it is I am worrying about. It is helpful for me to write down what the worst
possible scenario’s are and then determine if my thoughts are realistic or not. Then, I
will find something about the situation to have humor about. If someone I trust with my
feelings is around I will share my thought process with them. Laughing at ourselves, in
a good way, can be very therapeutic and decrease the seriousness of whatever it is you
are dealing with. We all have that voice in our heads that is trying to take us down so
do not underestimate the power of positive thought. Is there someone in your life that
uses humor to cope with challenges? Think about how you feel around this person.
Now, be this person, and others will feel more comfortable around you and as an added
bonus, you will likely be benefiting YOUR health as well!
Spring is almost upon us so keep up with your healthy habits and continue on your own
unique path to becoming the person you dream about being. Anything is possible with
wellness as your foundation!
If you are struggling to stay healthy or need guidance in making a change, consider
speaking with a Health or Nutrition Coach. We offer 30-minute FREE consultations.
Health is wealth so invest in your health and be the best YOU you can be!
Quote of the week:
“Love yourself. Forgive yourself. Be true to yourself. How you treat yourself sets the
standard for how others will treat you.” - Dr. Steve Maraboli
