You’ve probably heard the question, “Is the glass half empty or half full?” It’s an expression asking whether you’re an optimistic or pessimistic person. And unfortunately, those who are pessimistic, who see the glass as half empty, may find it more difficult to get through trying times, among other negative effects. You, however, can become a more positive person, and our Bessemer, AL, chiropractor would like to explain how.
Start Getting More Sunlight
Being a negative person can be a sign of depression. For example, you might find fault in many people or things to try to compensate for your negative portrayal of yourself. You may also have a hard time believing anything will change in your life.
You can take steps to reduce depression symptoms, though. A vitamin D deficiency can sometimes correlate with depression. By getting more vitamin D from being out in the sun, you can combat your depression. Keep in mind that getting outside and participating in exercise can make you feel better in general.
Exercise More
Living a sedentary lifestyle increases your risk of depression by 25 percent. And this can become a vicious cycle. You may not get the necessary exercise your body needs because you feel depressed. Then, the continuing lack of exercise can enhance your depression.
Ideally, you should get more active, even if you take small steps toward getting the physical activity you need, like going for a short walk each day. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should be getting 150 minutes per week of exercise, which is equivalent to slightly over 20 minutes per day.
Exercise stimulates your brain to release the neurotransmitters, endorphins. These chemicals can aid in the reduction of pain and stimulate feelings of pleasure, ultimately helping you feel more positive.
Use Humor to Cope When Appropriate
Crack a joke to ease tension when you’re under stress. For example, let’s say you have a major assignment due for work. While everyone is working toward a common goal, make a joke or two to lighten the mood. Once you’re joking, others may join. And did you know that laughter decreases stress chemicals in the brain?
Be sure to use humor when appropriate since some people may not appreciate you poking fun at a devastating event or when they’re stressed beyond belief.
Get Chiropractic Care for Pain
Pain and depression can go hand-in-hand. You might feel pain that leads to you not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. Routine tasks may become difficult. It’s hard to be optimistic when you can’t live your life how you want or everything from walking down steps to sleeping becomes difficult due to pain.
Fortunately, chiropractic care at our Bessemer, AL, practice can help. For example, exercise therapy, spinal adjustments, and spinal decompression can also ease back pain.
Change Your Own Mind
Persuasion is the art of convincing someone of something. In marketing, it’s used all the time to convince people that one product or company is superior over the other. However, you can use this same concept to be in charge of your mood and thoughts.
Catch yourself every time you have a negative thought and redirect your train of thought to something positive. Let’s say you look in the mirror and aren’t content with what you see. Focus your thoughts on what you do like about yourself. You could also remove yourself from the situation and remind yourself of everything you like about you, such as what you’re good at doing.
Choose Your Company Wisely
The expression, “You are the company you keep,” rings true. Often, you acquire the characteristics the people you associate with have, such as their attitude and overall disposition. If you’re surrounding yourself with people who enjoy complaining and gossiping, you could be doing more harm than good.
You don’t have to continue thinking the world is a bleak place. By taking steps to improve your health and reducing stress and depression, you can become a more positive person who’s excited to see what’s coming around the corner. You’ll also be a person other people would like to be around, at least other positive individuals.
If you have pain, let us ease it through natural means. Contact us at 205-519-4024, or use our online form.
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