By: Andrene M. Taylor, Ph.D.

Studies have documented that negative emotions are harmful to body. Stress and fear burdens the biological systems. These feelings lead to heart disease, diabetes, and even stroke. Anger and resentment also wreak havoc on the body.

Focusing on the positive can be one way to ward of such emotions. Studies have proven that you can reduce your chances of the resisting a heart attack if you do. If stress and fear can wreak havoc on your body, imagine what it can do to your looks.

Happiness is a part nature and nurture. Some people  may be born more optimistic than others. They can withstand the toxic stresses of day-to-day life with ease. Truth is, those folks are few and far between. Happiness is cultivated. It comes from developing behaviors that imbue good feelings. Basically, refraining from self-destructive behaviors—smoking, drinking, being inactive—and cultivating affirming lifestyle choices—playing a sport, participating in some faith-based activities, and eating  healthy foods.

Think of cultivating happiness as preventive natural medicine. Ward off wrinkles and heart attacks, diabetes, or even a stroke (leading killers of women) by developing emotional resilience against the everyday and extraordinary life challenges.

Life is going to happen, but you don’t have to wear it on your face. Hopefulness, enthusiasm, and a willingness to be a part of life, despite its ups and downs, can take you a long way. Below are six actionable items that you can do protect your beauty and your health.

Six Actionable Items:

1. Write your own affirmation –There are lots of books with affirmation in them. Wouldn’t it be cool to make your own. I’d like to help. Zuri mean beautiful. I believe that health is beautiful. Complete the following sentence: I am Zuri because … (check out some examples)
2. Write a gratitude list – Take the time everyday to write down at least two things you are grateful for.
3. Stay connected – Call up an old friend, go on a date with your spouse, ask that cute co-worker out, join a Meet-Up (and go to the events).
4. Getting Moving – Go for a walk, a run, a bike ride; or go to the gym, rock climb or go dancing. Exercises release endorphins, which boost your mood.
5. Take a time out – Prioritize your self-care. Pamper yourself. Go to get a facial, a message, a mani-pedi, or a nice healthy meal.
6. Practice living the life you want. Take those steps, no matter how small, toward going after that thing you really want. You know that I am talking about – writing that book, starting that business, getting the ball rolling on that diet. Live into your happiness.