We all know that good nutrition, exercise and proper medical care are vital to maintaining good health. What about your mental attitude? Mounting evidence suggests that a strong connection exists between our mental attitude and our physical health.
The HealthEmotions Research Institute of the University of Wisconsin is one of the first comprehensive centers dedicated to the scientific analysis of how emotions, particularly positive ones, influence disease and overall health. They have been able to scientifically show how major organ systems, such as the cardiovascular and immune systems, function during periods of positive and negative emotion.

According to Ned M. Kalin, M.D., director of this institute, "eventually, these findings will lay the foundation for treatment that will not only cure or delay disease, but hopefully, make people more resilient and better able to enjoy life. "

In an article for Forbes magazine (March 13, 1995), author William F. Allman tells us that people who respond positively to stress produce less cortisol ( a substance from the adrenal cortex that is anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive) than those who dread stressful situations. Although the person who produces more cortisol may have more stress related illnesses, indications are that a person's biochemistry can be altered through positive thinking. There are two types of people, with different genetic makeups and different ways of responding to stress. A "challenge" response is a positive one where people find a way to "rise to the occasion." On the other hand, the "choking", or "tanking" response is a negative one that numbs the mind and body.

Your biochemistry, inherited from your parents, together with your personal experiences, and your attitude, may help determine the way you respond. Remember, however, that your attitude can be changed.

In one study with couples trying to resolve long-standing disagreements, the more stressful the argument the more both people's immune system abilities dropped. The good news, however, is that a different, more positive response to stress, changes the biochemical events that occur. Less cortisol is released, and less damage may be done to the body.

Less damage to the body means less visits to the doctor, and more time to enjoy life. In research by Dr. Douglas Dressman, M.D., of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, women with a sense of hopelessness and pessimism came in for 60% more Doctors' visits and experienced twice as much pain as women with a more affective coping style. To start changing your attitude, Dr. Dressman says," Keep a positive frame of mind. Remind yourself that you're really in control. You can do something about your illness."

As a Dietitian, I have seen patients who refused 80% of their meals, change drastically when a family member came in and helped feed them. This difference in their attitude definitely affected their progress.

Norman Cousins, in the book "Anatomy of an Illness", chronicled an inspiring triumph over his own serious illness. He detailed his practice of using laughter to heal by watching old comedies with such stars as Laurel and Hardy, or the Three Stooges.

Many researchers suggest specific ways to improve your health through your own attitude. First remember that you control your attitude. Keep a positive frame of mind. You can do something about your health. One physician that gives you practical, daily things you can do to live more healthfully, is Dr. Andrew Weil, in the book " 8 weeks to Optimum Health". Guided imagery, used for a long time by professionals, can help reduce stress and encourage a more positive attitude. This is a process of putting yourself in a totally relaxed state and imagining positive things. Some people visualize parts of their body actually healing itself and gradually getting better. Others imagine themselves in a beautiful happy place, surrounded by objects, scenery or people they love. Dr. Peter Staats says, " No single guided imagery process or pep talk works for everyone. The trick is to say words to yourself that elicit a positive emotional response."

Another simple thing you can do to enhance your immune function, and your health, is to write about your feelings and emotions, especially in relation to stressful events and traumas. Dr. James Pannebaker, Ph.D. found that those who wrote about extremely traumatic events, had fewer doctor visits during the months following than those who either didn't write, or who wrote about superficial topics. Blood tests indicated an enhanced immune function. In his book, "Opening up: The Healing Power of Confiding in Others.", Dr. Pannebaker describes the process. Keep in mind, that bottling up your feelings can compromise your immune function.

According to Dr. Pannebaker try this: "Find a place where you can be by yourself, uninterrupted. Sit down and write for 20 to 30 minutes, exploring your deepest emotions and thoughts about whatever is upsetting you. Instead of whining, or ruminating, stick with questions like; How do I feel about this? Why does it make me feel this way? Write continuously, without worrying about spelling, grammar or repetition. Do this for three to five days in a row whenever life feels particularly stressful." Put it all on paper. After sweeping all the bad feelings out onto your paper, try to look at the brighter side. Optimism is very healthy. To change pessimism to optimism, take a step back and take a more realistic look at yourself. Think about all the things you are especially good at. Dedicate yourself to positive self-talk. Thinking in more positive terms can help you "toughen up" your response to stress. Also, try these: a.) exercise regularly b.) take a rest break and take time to evaluate what you want to accomplish and how far you've come. c.) remember, taking stock of your accomplishments helps you realize the control that you do have.

As Norman Vincent Peale said, "Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven't half the strength you think they have."