Positive Mindset

Dear Staff;
This time of year always seems to bring a little more stress throughout the building.  Perhaps it's that the "honeymoon" of good student behavior is over, or the anticipation of winter weather approaching... whatever it is, the heightened stress can be seen, heard, and especially felt.  Our attitudes may start to swing, and our bodies start to get run down.  I wanted to include a few things to think about this week, as reminders to dig deep for that positive way of thinking!

Positive Thinking Is a Way of Life

With a positive attitude, we experience pleasant and happy feelings.  This brings brightness to the eyes, more energy, and happiness.  Our whole being emulates good will, happiness, and success.  Even our health is affected in a beneficial way.  We walk tall, and our body language shows the way we feel.  It is any wonder that we want to be around positive people?

According to Mayo Clinic, there are health benefits associated with positive thinking, which include:

• Increased life span
• Lower rates of depression
• Lower levels of distress
• Greater resistance to the common cold
• Better psychological and physical well-being
• Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease
• Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress

One theory for these health benefits is that having a positive outlook enables you to cope better with stressful situations, which reduces the harmful health effects of stress on your body. It's also thought that positive and optimistic people tend to live healthier lifestyles — they get more physical activity, follow a healthier diet, and don't smoke or drink alcohol in excess.

Something to think about... when you start to feel overwhelmed, remind yourself to be positive.  And let others know how they can help!

Have a great, and HEALTHY, week!
Sue

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