Positivity actually makes you heathier

I’ve previously written an article that touches on the negative effects of stress on brain and body function, but today I want to talk about the benefits of positivity more specifically.

Your brain releases chemicals that effect your entire body. Today I want to look at how the thoughts that you think and the emotions that you feel directly affect other bodily processes.

Stress hormones wreak havoc on your body

When your brain feels stress, it releases a chemical called cortisol, known as the stress hormone for this very reason. Cortisol is used in survival to quickly prepare us for escape from danger. It does this by slowing down some bodily functions in order to speed up others. Quick energy is prioritized while general recovery is neglected in order to make a quick getaway or fight possible. This is why stress leads to constipation, digestion problems and muscle tension.

Enjoyment and calming hormones lead to recovery

When you relax and enjoy something like a hobby, your brain releases a chemical called serotonin. This is also referred to as the love hormone, responsible for the emotional highs that are experienced during infatuation. Your brain releases this chemical to signal to the body that it is in a safe place and can start certain bodily functions that requires more energy, since there is no danger nearby. This is why serotonin release causes increased healing and recovery. Hugging a significant other before sleep has been shown to increase over sleep time and quality.

By balancing your mind through positive thought, you empower the rest of your body to function accordingly. Happy thoughts, happy life!

Feel free to like, reblog, mention, share or comment on this post. Happy living!