Health gem

If you do one thing this week . . . try to stay postive

Could having a positive outlook be linked with a longer, healthier life?

A review of over 160 studies found that, in general, people with a positive state of mind tend to survive longer and enjoy better health.

The paper, published recently in the journal Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, found that feeling positive about your life and not being stressed is linked with longevity and better health among healthy populations, according to author Ed Diener.

“Happiness is no magic bullet. But the evidence is clear and compelling that it changes your odds of getting disease or dying young,” says Diener, a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of Illinois.

“Current health recommendations focus on four things: avoid obesity, eat right, don’t smoke, and exercise. It may be time to add ‘be happy and avoid chronic anger and depression’ to the list,” according to Diener.