Mental Health Determines Physical Health

Eating right and exercising aren’t enough. To be healthy, you also need to pay attention to your mental states. Studies have shown significant health risks for people overwhelmed by anger, anxiety, stress, frustration, resentment and depression.

One study found that participants with the highest levels of anger were at significant risk for heart attacks, while another study demonstrated a clear link between anger and hypertension. Intensely felt negative emotions increase your chances of cardiovascular death. They also greatly increase complications after surviving a heart attack.

When you’re experiencing negative feelings, try breathing slowly and deeply. Let go of the negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Listen to your favorite music to change your mood from bad to good or seek out fun with friends if you’re not successful going it alone.

Sometimes, nature is the best medicine: Take a walk in the park, visit a beautiful flower garden, or go hiking. Lose yourself in the sights and sounds of trees and birds.

Maintain your new positive attitude by taking time out for reflection every single day. At the end of the workday, look back and think of three successful things you did. Stress leads to poor health, so stop being so hard on yourself. By focusing on your successes, small or large, you will create hope for tomorrow and you will feel much healthier.