Positive thinking could boost your health, according to a study of nearly 10,000 Australian adults were asked about their current health and happiness in 2001 and then again in 2004. Those who said they were satisfied with life at the initial interview were about twice as likely as the unhappy participants to report good health at the follow-up meeting. Other research suggests that improving your spirits may boost health. Steps that can give your mood a lift include focusing on positive memories and experiences, forgiving others, and getting involved in activities that include creativity, exploration, imagination, strategy, and discovery.

Read more about the power of positive thinking, and on how optismism can help you shed pounds.