The Art of Cultivating Positive Thoughts for Better Health

Over the past few decades, numerous studies have been published demonstrating the effectiveness of positive thinking on our health. But how do we practice this truth that is often easier to acknowledge than to implement?

Voltaire, a great philosopher and Enlightenment thinker, once said, "I have decided to be happy because it is good for my health." Although this observation has since been validated by scientific studies, it is not a new concept: having a cheerful disposition and feeling good in your own skin has a direct positive impact on our health.

In theory, we all agree, as it seems evident. Yet, in the hustle and bustle of life, amidst daily wear and tear, challenges we all face to varying degrees, in a fast-paced society further marred by a global pandemic, how do we cultivate positive thoughts? How do we avoid being overwhelmed by the flood of bad news or obstacles that arise in our path?

The answer is simple, although initially challenging to implement. Like Voltaire, one must DECIDE to be happy. Despite everything else, make it a philosophy, a lifestyle routine, even a daily exercise. Just like meditation, if you initially struggle to find positive thoughts to fuel your day, you'll find that with practice, you'll eventually be brimming with positive thoughts.

It is crucial to distinguish three elements that will help you highlight this essential exercise for both mental and physical health: there are thoughts (1), which trigger emotions (2), often linked to behaviors (3). By segmenting these concepts, we better understand the process: create moments for yourself that spark "good" emotions such as joy, happiness, satisfaction, confidence, and relaxation, and you will naturally have positive thoughts. Like a natural cycle, these positive thoughts will foster your inner well-being and, consequently, your health.

Don't wait and create your own moments that trigger positive thoughts. Depending on your preferences or affinities, this can come from physical and sports activities, cultural, manual, family, social pursuits, and more. The only important thing is the outcome: that these activities provide you with pleasant emotions, allowing you to think positively and effortlessly, simply feeling good.

The added (and major) benefit is that this well-being becomes a strength and often encourages us to do even better for ourselves (sleep, nutrition, lifestyle).

With our best encouragements, the choice is yours!