Good morning everyone!

Today is Day 1 of your daily dosage of simple healthy living tips! Meredith and I will be sending these tips every morning for the next 10 work days. So don’t forget to check your inbox!

1. Think positive

Being positive helps to build a healthier immune system. Numerous studies have shown that optimists are physically and psychologically healthier than pessimists. A University of Michigan study followed people from age 25 to 65 to see how their levels of pessimism or optimism influenced or correlated with their overall health. The researchers found that pessimists’ health deteriorated far more rapidly as they aged.

So, it’s true, your body believes what you think, focus on positive thoughts. Show yourself some sympathy and keep looking toward your end goals. Try not to dwell on mistakes as they are only part of the journey to happiness and success.

This is our challenge to you – Positive 5 for 5:

Write down 5 things on a piece of paper that will encourage positive thinking.  Here are a few examples of what those things could be about:

• A characteristic about yourself you are thankful for
• An accomplishment that was tough but you persevered through
• Something that makes you laugh or brings you joy to think about
• Something you’re looking forward to in the future
• A favorite motivational quote

Now, everyday, look at these things you’ve written down for 5min/day and be still with your thoughts.  See what happens to your thinking for the rest of the day