IN YOUR DAILY DOSE: today is research showing those who talk about themselves may be telling you more than they realize.

MAKING CHANGES:  By including this one change in your daily routine, you’ll experience many of the benefits you may have only seen others enjoy.

FACT OR FICTION: Can you identify Akitas?

In The News

Choruses of “I, I, I” or “me, me, me” may not be the actions of a narcissist, but rather a friend in trouble. Researchers have found those who talk about themselves frequently are more prone to emotional distress and negative emotions in general.

SOURCE: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/03/180306115716.htm

Daily Health Tip

Your mental health is as important, if not more so, than your physical health. In fact, your mental and emotional stability help you to make smart decisions about your physical health.

Making Changes

Expressing gratitude and feeling grateful actually improves your health by placing your focus outside of yourself and onto others. Here are several strategies to help you get started.

1. Keep a gratitude journal. Write in it at least twice a week and record things that happened that day for which you are grateful. They don’t need to be big things - the barista who was kind, the guy who held open the door or the police officer who didn’t write you a ticket.
2. Make writing in your journal a habit by associating it with another activity - such as unfixing your bed, or shutting down your computer. If you choose to do it a couple days a week choose two consistent days so you remember - such as every Wednesday and Sunday or Tuesday and Saturday.
3. Express your gratitude to someone to their face. Saying thank you to someone makes them feel good and improves your health.
4. Write a letter to someone to whom you are grateful - even for something small. You may choose to not send it - but do write it.

Daily Affirmation

When I help others, I learn more about myself. I am always ready to assist others with what they need. When I offer my guidance, I feel proud of myself.
I work to counter my imperfections. Making myself into the person I want to be sometimes seems like a challenge, but I know that I am up to the task.

Fact or Fiction?

Akitas are large dogs who look a little like Alaskan sled dogs, but aren’t. They were bred in the mountainous region of Japan to guard nobility and track and hunt wild boar. They are fearless, double-coated dogs who are territorial and will defend you and their home to their death. However, without the right training, you may end up with a dog who is unable to control their temperament and bite. They tolerate cold weather well but not the heat. They are affectionate with their families but not with strangers. These are strong dogs who do not do well with novice dog owners. They likely earned their reputation as fierce animals after poor training.

Have a wonderful day!

Your Healthy Life America Team