Research Shows Optimism Can Protect Your Heart

by Dr. Stephen Sinatra

Last Reviewed 05/18/2012

For years, I’ve written about the healing power of the mind. Our emotions definitely have a profound impact on our health. One of the most powerful recent examples I’ve seen of the power of optimism is a colleague’s husband whose positive attitude has helped him to triumph over cancer.

So, I wasn’t surprised to read new findings from a team of Harvard researchers who found that optimism and joy can protect your heart—actually lowering the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

In this study, the researchers reviewed the outcomes of more than 200 previous studies. What they found is that in those studies people with the most optimistic attitudes had a 50% reduced risk of having a cardiac event than those were less optimistic.

How can you harness the healing power of optimism?

Look for the silver lining. Almost every situation has a bright side, if you’re willing to step back and force yourself to look for the good.
Count your blessings. Remembering all of the good things in your life helps you to focus on the positive.
Keep a journal. Each night before you go to bed, write down at least one good thing that happened during the day. On days that were especially tough, you can re-read all of the positive events in your life.
Reach out to others. Connecting with other people helps us all to gain a better perspective on our own lives.

Now it’s your turn: How do you stay optimistic in your life?

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Meet Dr. Sinatra

Dr. Stephen Sinatra is a highly respected and sought-after cardiologist and nutritionist with more than 30 years of clinical practice, research, and study. His integrative approach to heart health focuses on reducing inflammation in the body and maximizing the heart's ability to produce and use energy. More About Dr. Sinatra