By Dr. Ira Shapiro
Director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center, Old Bridge
Mastering the art of positive thinking is especially challenging for some individuals. Have you ever known people that are endlessly optimistic despite bad circumstances, while others seem to embrace misery at every turn? Like many personal characteristics, happiness can be determined by genetics.
Recent studies have found that many of our moods can be hardwired. Beyond that, we are a product of our experiences and circumstances – both good and bad – which make up another 10 to 20 percent of who we are.
The good news is that the rest is up to us. There’s always a pathway for feeling better no matter the situation. Effort is the operative term. Never feel weak for reaching out and taking the extra step to help yourself when life overwhelms. Even the most basic actions can put a smile on your face and a sense of contentment in your heart.
Enjoy Nature/Feel Comfort in a Cool Breeze
While modern civilization has made our lives more convenient, it has deprived us of an essential source of stress relief— connection with nature. Studies show that interacting with nature can help lessen the effects of stress on the nervous system, reduce attention deficits, decrease aggression and enhance spiritual well-being.
In contrast, too much time alone or indoors can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Don’t kid yourself; at our core, we are pack animals raised outdoors. Get out. Go for a walk. Enjoy the park. Garden. Say hello to someone new. A few hours outside, socializing with others, can be truly uplifting.
Laugh It Off
Humor relieves stress and anxiety, and prevents depression by helping to put our troubles in perspective. Laughter has also been shown to boost the immune system, increase pain tolerance, enhance mood and creativity, and lower blood pressure. We all have problems, although some challenges can be more extreme than others. Even in the darkest of times, we must all allow ourselves to enjoy what we can. Laughing and joy are essential for helping us cope with challenges and move on to the next phase of life.
Calm Your Mind
In recent decades, many forms of meditation have gained popularity as relaxation and pain relief tools. Focusing on our breath, looking at a candle, or practicing a non-judgmental awareness of our thoughts and actions can help tune out distractions, reduce anxiety and depression, while helping to accept circumstances. For instance, the visualization of calming images has helped many people to reduce stress and better deal with pain.
Give Exercise a Shot
Exercise can supply the best of both worlds. It can improve your physical conditioning, while enhancing mental outlook and the ability to deal with life’s negative moments. The trick is to find an activity you like and then stick with it. The options are limitless. There are classes of every type for people of every age. There are other activities that can be performed in the comfort of home for little expense. Just be smart. Start slow. Build up the intensity as you move forward. Enjoy.
For more information on creating better, fitter and healthier lives for the entire family please contact the Plaza Chiropractic Center at 732-723-0023 or visit www.plazachiro.com. Our trained staff will be happy to work with you, no matter your age or condition, to develop a safe and effective wellness program that complements your life style and offers long-lasting fitness rewards.
Dr. Ira A. Shapiro is the director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center, which he founded in Old Bridge in 1984. A two-time member of the U.S. Olympic team medical staff, he has provided safe, gentle and effective chiropractic care to tens of thousands of patients ranging from community members to professional athletes competing at the highest international levels.
