Healthy Thursday: Accentuating the Positive

Elliot Bay, Seattle, WA 2010

Are a gloomy gus and not realizing it?  Ulcers and high blood pressure Do you see the bad, dark and negative side of life? Is Murphy your constant companion? Always seeing the dark rainclouds and not the silver linings? Constant bad days?

Maybe it’s not ‘them’ out to get you, maybe it’s your constant, negative and dark outlook on life.  You don’t have to turn into a pollyanna, start holding hands with strangers, singing kumbaya, (besides, some may deck you). No, just start looking at the positive side of life, seeing the beauty of nature all around you. Turn off the tv, stop looking at negative websites/news sites, stop talking to people that accentuate the negative of life, raising your blood pressure, having you look over your shoulder every three minutes.

I’m talking about, getting up early, watching a sunset with a cup of your favorite morning beverage, maybe walking around the block as the sun rises; looking at some flowers, fruits or vegetables blooming in gardens along the way or a public park, garden or community center. Notice how clean the streets are, the canopy of trees, smile at strangers who are walking along also. During your busy work day or running errands, look at the crystal clear blue sky and be grateful you’re not having any extreme weather conditions.

Do you know what else helps with positivity?  Exercise! Exercise has been shown to increase positive endorphins, that cause good feelings. The best exercise for anyone, with dr’s approval if you have health issues, is simple walking.  Nothing beats a leisurely walk enjoying beauty, be that nature in the countryside or new window displays in the city.

So get out there, look for the beauty of the world!