Positive Thinking v.s Positive Action

Is positive thinking going to make any difference?

Positive thinking has long been discovered as an important step in achieving healthier life. Have anyone ever asked you the classic question whether your glass is half-empty or half-full? The answer to this question reflects your general outlook in life, whether you have an optimistic or pessimistic point of view.

turn positive thinking into action

A lot of studies had shown show that your mind affects your general health and well-being. Positive thinking plays an important role, especially in stress management. It translates into a state of mental well-being, which in turn is associated with a lot of health benefits, especially in reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases. However, positive thinking may also have a negative effect in a way that all we do is think with no actual effort taken to change things in reality.

In one study conducted at the University of California, students were asked to spend a few moments each day visualizing themselves getting good marks in an upcoming exam. The daydreaming, even though it lasted only for a few minutes, caused the students to study less, and consequently scored lower marks. Because they set up higher expectations, some of those who failed the exam were placed under heavier burden of guilt and regret.

So, what do you do? Turn your positive thinking into positive action.

Let's face it, no action yields no results. In fact, too much positive thinking will backfired at you if the results turn out to be far from your expectations. Positive thinking does not change the reality you face, but it changes the way you approach your everyday problems. It gives you the edge to anticipate things and that boost of can-do attitude you'll need to get things done.

Here's a little exercise of turning positive thinking into positive action. First of all, do a self-talk using affirmative sentences in present tense. In this example, we'll use: "I can get up early in the morning everyday to exercise." Repeat this a few times before you go to sleep. Don't forget to set up your alarm clock. When it rings tomorrow, make sure you don't turn it off and go back to sleep!

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Other articles in stress management and mental health:

• Stress is part of a normal psychological and physical reaction to the ever increasing demands of life. It's a way to prepare our body with fight or flight response against challenges. Read more about stress management and healthy coping strategies
• A well known concept in stress management is the four 'A's: avoid, alter, adapt, and accept. Read more about practical tips to manage stress
• Normal grief or sadness last only for a short while and rarely interferes with your daily functions. Depression, however, is a serious condition. Read more about the difference between normal sadness and depression
  

Exercise Made Easy (and Enjoyable)

Believe it or not, the hardest part is to get it going in the first place.

You wake up in the morning with the resolution to exercise only to find yourself dragging your feet to the couch some five minutes later. This article will provide you some tips to make your exercise easy and enjoyable.

Start gradually.

First of all, start out slowly and increase your activity gradually over time. This will help your body adjust and avoid injury. Start with 30 minutes of moderate cardio exercise each day. You can divide it into three 10 sessions if you're not able to go through it all at once. However if you do this, make sure you do reach around 75% of the maximum heart rate for your age. The maximum heart rate is calculated as 220 minus your age.

Move around whenever and wherever you can.

Try to include physical activity into your schedule whenever you can. For example, walk to the office or take the stairs instead of the elevator. By making a conscious effort to stay on the move, you may find yourself fulfilling the recommended amount of physical activity for the day without having to set aside exclusive time and place to exercise.

Bring a company to an active leisure time like bicycle riding.

Look forward to fun.

Select activities you find satisfying and that give you a feeling of accomplishment. Bring your friend or family into an active leisure time such as walking in a garden, riding a bike, swimming, or group sports. Their company will encourage you and they too will enjoy the health benefits of physical activity.

Stay comfy.

Try to make yourself comfortable as much as you can during exercise. Wear good fitting shoes with padded soles and don't wear anything too tight of a clothing. There's nothing wrong about wanting to look pretty and stylish when you're exercising, but if you had to make a choice between fashion and comfort, pick comfort.

Put on the beat.

Listen to music when you're exercising. An inspiring music can sometimes make a difference between a boring and exciting exercise session. It will also drive away monotonous feeling.

Know your body.

Most importantly, make sure your activities are compatible with your age and physical condition. Consult your physician if you are not sure about which type of exercise that will suit you. He or she will point you down the right direction to start and give you advices to avoid injuries.

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Other articles in exercise:

• Even though they may not look like much of a calorie burner, these activities are just as effective as the more complicated exercises. Read more about this small list of easy exercises
• A lot of seniors feel discouraged to do physical exercises because concerns about injury or falls. Sometimes a health condition such as heart disease and osteoarthritis can also prevent them from staying active. Read more about exercise for older adults and the elderly
• In the year 2008 physical inactivity was responsible for the deaths of 5.3 million. These deaths could be avoided if only people would take 150 minutes or more of moderate exercise weekly. Read more about physical inactivity and the problems it brings