Strike a Pose
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I’m not talking about Voguing and most certainly not encouraging duck-lip selfies, but referring to another mind-body correlation practice known as “power posing.” While my signature move (both on and off the dance floor) used to be “freezing in fear” when heightened anxiety kicked in, I now try assuming a physical stance that signals confidence to signal my mind to follow suit. According to social psychologist and Harvard Professor, Amy Cuddy, who researches power posing and body language cues, when our bodies become stress-reactive, we tend to shut down mentally. Cuddy notes, “Our bodies change our minds, and our minds change our behavior, and our behavior changes our outcomes.” Practicing posturing confidently enables me to psyche myself into mental resilience and subdue anxiety. And I think it’s improved my actual posture.
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Longevity Tip ~ It’s Siesta Time
Take naps.
Birthday girl Flossie Dickey became a viral internet sensation on her 110th birthday when she wasn’t interested in being interviewed by a TV crew. It seems she’d rather be sleeping. Dickey said she naps as often as she can, which is also one of the habits of the people in Ikaria, Greece. The small island has been dubbed a “Blue Zone” where an unusual number of people live to 100. Researchers say it’s not uncommon to see shops close up around midday so people can indulge in a little restful shuteye. Naps are said to help give you a second wind to stay productive and also they help give you a break from the stresses of daily life.
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Wellness Tip
We’ve seen that loving relationships can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression — a fact that may give the immune system a boost. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that people who exhibit positive emotions are less likely to get sick after exposure to cold or flu viruses. The study, published in Psychosomatic Medicine,compared people who were happy and calm with those who appeared anxious, hostile, or depressed.
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Wellness Tip
“Saying no when you are reaching your limit can be very empowering! People will respect your boundaries and be more appreciative of your time when you do agree to take on a favor or additional responsibility. Be firm but polite. Practice saying “no” in the mirror to gain confidence!”
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Wellness Tip
Looking on the bright side increases your ability to experience happiness in your day-to-day life while helping you cope more effectively with stress.
Today’s Reflection ~ Longevity
A light heart lives long. ~ Shakespeare
Tip on Reducing Stress by Deepak Chopra
You can stop once in a while and just ask yourself, “Am I present?” And bring your awareness to your breath, [and] all into your body.
In the present moment, there’s no more stress. Stress is the anticipation of something in the future so it’s in your imagination or something that you regret in the past. But in this moment there’s no stress.
source: Reducing Stress
