7 Simple Ways to a Healthier Mind and Body

By Penelope J Whiteley  |   Submitted On September 30, 2014

What we think affects our bodies. You probably know from experience that when you think about something stressful or irritating, your heart rate increases, you may feel agitated, or even get an upset stomach. Hopefully, you've also noticed that when you think about something or someone you love, you have a feeling of calm, your breathing is deep and relaxed, and you may notice you're not as tense.

The thing to remember is that you do have control over how you feel, and using a few simple techniques throughout your day can dramatically improve how you feel. You can even slow your heart rate and blood pressure... at will!

Visualisation is a creative form of meditation. Your thoughts are constantly creating pictures in your mind. Happy, positive thoughts will inspire and energize you while depressive, negative thoughts will deplete your energy.

Visualisation can be practised anywhere, but a closed room with dim lighting is best; at least until you master the art. Learn to step away from a stressful situation (even 3 seconds will work); picture your favourite things and focus on slow, regular, deep breathing!

Yoga is a 3000 year old tradition which is much more than mere exercise. In addition to helping you feel at peace, yoga helps heal illness, lubricates your joints, ligaments and muscles and helps strengthen every part of your body.

Yoga also teaches you how to breathe properly, lowers blood pressure and benefits almost every organ in your body. Yoga may be practised by people of any age; it soothes the mind and will keep you young, energetic and vivacious!

Prayer or meditation. Whether it be in the form of affirmations, prayers to your own particular god, conversations with the universe or talking to your angels or guardians, will feed your spirituality.

Prayer creates a feeling of peace. It will soothe your mind and provide you with a feeling of well-being... mentally, spiritually and physically. Feeling at peace with yourself is a major boost to your overall state of happiness.

Re-frame Your Thoughts

Most of us notice things only when they become a problem; so why not try looking differently at what you now consider irritations and stop them from becoming mountains... keep them as mole hills. Train your brain to see things from a different perspective.

For example:

Have an attitude of gratitude.

If you woke up this morning, be thankful! Even if you have aches and pains... that's a pretty good indication you're still alive!

Be grateful for dirty dishes... it means you've had a delicious meal.

If you have bills to pay, be glad that you've enjoyed the benefit of electricity, fuel, and a roof over your head.

Notice something you normally overlook:

Has the road been repaired?

Are flowers in bloom?

Are the leaves turning into a rainbow of colour?

Did your waiter have a nice smile?

Be nice to someone:

Offer up your seat on the bus or train.

Open the door for someone.

Pick up the tab for coffee or even lunch... for a stranger.

Smile.

Donate some of your books, clothing, dishes, etc.

Remember that everyday isn't great, but there's something great in everyday.

It's really just a matter of re-framing your thoughts, paying attention and learning to see things as they are, and not as you believe they should be.

Penelope Jane Whiteley is an international speaker, entrepreneur and writer and Change Catalyst for Women Over 50. She specialises in helping women 50+ re-create, re-design and re-style their lives. Penelope is the author of Hot Stuff-The Ultimate Style Guide for Women of a Certain Age, and her new book, 25 Ways to a Happier, Healthier You. Learn to Age DISgracefully with Penelope on her website athttp://penelopewhiteley.com, or on 

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 at http://facebook.com/agingdisgrace.

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