Having a good mood can benefit your long-term health but did you know that in the same way, an ongoing bad mood can create long-term health problems, too? Your day-to-day mood is impacting your life in more ways than you know. Here’s how:
Grouchiness Hurts Your Immune System
Angry outbursts cause adrenaline surges. They also spike your heart rate and blood pressure. While letting anger go may seem unhealthy, holding it in is even more unhealthy. “Subtle” anger, like grouchiness and impatience, can eventually lead to chronic anxiety, higher risk of infection and a depressed immune system.
Jealousy Enables Insomnia
Whether it’s jealousy over emotional betrayal, a new job or an entire lifestyle, constant jealousy can rob your sleep. If you’re experiencing ongoing jealousy, you’ll also suffer from raised blood pressure. This leads to higher adrenaline levels and high awareness. In some cases, it creates insomnia.
Being Thankful Creates Oxytocin
It isn’t all bad, is it? Fortunately, expressing gratitude releases the chemical oxytocin in your body. This bonding hormone, secreted by the heart, is responsible for harmonious feelings. Its release can also result in your body healing quicker. Who knew, right?
Happiness Boosts Immune System and Brain Activity
If you’re happier, you’re healthier. A calm, comfortable state helps your organs operate better. It also helps your nervous system relax, which gives it time to repair emotional damages. Another study reveals that happiness boosts your immune system – positivity itself brings up your immunity.
If you’re down in the dumps, fear not: Everyone gets bad moods. Fortunately, your day-to-day actions can shape your body’s ability to keep being happy. Get outside. Play with your hobby. Talk to people. You have a surprising amount of control over your life, so why not use it?