Being Happy is Good for Your Health

By Mike Cooper

There have been several studies showing that being happy is good for your health. There is a connection between being happy and optimistic, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Happy, optimistic people tend to maintain good habits as well – exercising, eating healthy, and getting a good night’s sleep. These things help reduce your risk of heart disease.

Want to be as happy as this member? Here are 5 tips:

• Be Optimistic. You can be a ‘glass-is-half-empty’ or ‘glass-is-half-full’ kind of person. Choose half-full. It doesn’t cost anything! Try to look on the bright side, even when the negative might overshadow it.
• Breathe. Not just breathing to live, but deep, controlled breaths. Meditating for even 5 minutes a day can help you focus and put you at ease. There are a variety of classes and YouTube videos that can teach you the right way to meditate.
• Do Something Nice Each Day. It could be for you or for someone else. The act of doing something nice will give you a positive mental boost and will turn that frown upside-down! Sometimes when I have done something nice I hear, “You have done your good deed for the day.” I reply, “There is no daily limit on good deeds.”
• Get Some Sunlight. Sometimes that is easier said than done in these Chicago winters, but there are plenty of days when the sun is shining. Open the blinds and let the sun in. If you work in an office space with no windows, try to get out and enjoy the sun for even a few minutes – even if you have to sit in your car if it is cold outside. Here at Naperville Senior Center we have several windows to bring in natural light. We think it makes a difference when people can see a beautiful day!
• Accept Yourself as You Are. Is your nose too big, your hair too curly (or straight), or you wish you could drop those last few pounds? Don’t beat yourself up over it; accept yourself as you are right now. That doesn’t mean you should avoid self-improvement, but take it in stride. Being critical of yourself will take away all the positive things you do for others.

At Naperville Senior Center we strive to bring happiness each day to our Members. We want them to enjoy their time with us through socialization, activities, games and puzzles, exercise and even breaking bread together. We are thrilled when we hear them say they look forward to coming each day; we know we are succeeding!

Call to action: to learn more about how NSC can provide a respite for you and a great social environment for your loved one, contact our Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Theresa, at 630.857.3017. You can also schedule a tour to see what we have to offer and understand the Naperville Senior Center experience, “Home Away From Home.”