Health

5 Ways Positive Thinking Can Change Your Life

Looking on the bright side can go a long way. Learn how a positive attitude can transform your life for the better

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It Gives You a Glow In addition to helping your body on the inside, positive thinking can work wonders on your outer appearance too. "Focusing on negative things increases the cortisol levels in the body which is a stress hormone -- and we all know that people who are stressed don't tend to have that radiant, healthy glow," says Carmichael.

Unmanaged stress may not be the root of skin problems, but it tends to be a trigger factor for pre-existing conditions such as acne and eczema. A simple smile (which already works to brighten your appearance) can quickly put you on the path of positive thinking. This, in turn, will keep those stress levels in check and help keep your skin clear. "Research shows that maintaining a pleasant, happy expression actually lifts your mood because you interpret it as a sign of happiness," says Carmichael, and a better mood translates into a healthier look.

SEE NEXT PAGE: It Increases Self-Confidence

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Older comments

positive thinking is a great tool. thank you for the article

by venenumletalis Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 02:56PM Report as inappropriate

Good things to remember

by loufig29 Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at 03:27AM Report as inappropriate

I've heard lots of reasons to practice positive thinking, but it never occurred to me before that it could improve your looks.

by purple9a Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 06:26PM Report as inappropriate

I had no idea that cortisol affects your glow!

by Roxalyn Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 04:45PM Report as inappropriate

really good and informative article!

by voyager24 Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 09:34AM Report as inappropriate

Interesting article. I will keep in mind during stressful times.

by Sari Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 09:13AM Report as inappropriate

Positive thinking is the best thing you can do for yourself

by yestfl Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 07:39PM Report as inappropriate

Yes to destress!

by EricaC123 Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 04:28PM Report as inappropriate

This is one of my FAVORITE pieces ever! My mom worked for college psychology professors when I was growing up, and I devoured book after book about positive thinking and a healthy mental attitude. It has a HUGE impact on your appearance and the way things work out in your life; we are what we THINK. Applause, applause for this!

by GigiSD Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 01:01PM Report as inappropriate

its good to try to do positive thinking

by butterfly11 Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at 11:17AM Report as inappropriate