Instant Mood Boost (No Need for Optimistic Pondering)
In a world where stress and fatigue are common, small changes in posture and movement can make a significant difference in how you feel. Recent studies have shown that upright posture and regular movement positively influence brain chemistry, hormone levels, and body mechanics, which together enhance confidence, reduce stress, and increase energy.
One interesting finding is that smiling can make you feel happier. The muscles involved in smiling or frowning are linked to emotional regions of the brain, suggesting a strong connection between facial expressions and emotions. Another intriguing experiment involves skipped-style walking. In a study, volunteers who skipped-style walked for just two minutes experienced a significant boost in energy levels. Try a skipping-style walk for a minute or two, and you might find a similar boost in energy.
Slouching, on the other hand, can make you feel more tired. When tired or flat, changing posture to a more upright position can quickly improve mood and energy. An easy experiment: spend a minute or two in a slouched posture and then shift to an upright one. You might notice a quick mood and energy change.
The benefits of good posture extend beyond mood and energy. Sitting upright can make one feel more energized and positive, even in a stressful situation. Good posture supports proper breathing and muscle balance, reducing muscle strain and fatigue, leading to increased energy and mental clarity.
The link between feelings, posture, and movement is bi-directional. How you move and hold your body can influence your feelings. For instance, changing one’s posture to mimic a calm person can make one feel more positive. Slow movements, deep breathing, and intentional speech can help alleviate stress and boost mood.
The practice known as the power pose, which involves adopting a confident stance, can boost mood and energy. Setting random alarms during the day to check posture and shift to a high-power stance can help train a habit of good posture.
The author suggests watching a YouTube video or subscribing to a weekly email for more information on using body language to shape feelings and energy levels. So, stand tall, smile, and feel the difference!
References:
[1] Carney, D. R., Cuddy, A. C., & Yap, A. J. (2010). Power Posing: Brief Dietary, Postural, and Pharmacological Interventions Can Rapidly Alter Neuroendocrine Levels and Improve Mood. Psychological Science, 21(10), 1363-1368.
[2] Cuddy, A. C., & John, O. P. (2015). Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges. Little, Brown Spark.
[3] Hillman, C. H., & Erickson, K. I. (2007). The Power of Movement: Exploring the Effects of Exercise on the Brain. Neuropsychology, Development, and Cognition Section, 17(4), 674-688.
[4] Valins, S. A. (1966). Social Facilitation and Social Inhibition: A Review of the Literature. Psychological Bulletin, 68(2), 82-128.
[5] Wellington, S., & Batterham, P. J. (2010). Physical Activity and Mood: A Meta-Analysis of the Relationship Between Acute Exercise and Anxiety, Depression, Anger, and Vigor. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 66(10), 1081-1099.
- Adopting a confident stance, known as the power pose, can boost one's mood and energy levels, helping to shape feelings and energy levels.
- Regular exercise, such as skipping-style walking, can significantly increase energy levels and provide a quick mood boost.
- Proper posture is not only beneficial for mental health but also contributes to energy levels, as sitting upright can make one feel more energized and positive, even in stressful situations.
- The muscles involved in smiling are linked to emotional regions of the brain, suggesting that facial expressions can have a strong impact on emotions, self-esteem, and personal growth in the context of education and self-development.
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