August 27

[The Story Teller]

August 27
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Thinking Good Health
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“The joyfulness of a man prolongeth his days.”
—The Apocrypha
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Bacteria and viruses are not the only causes of disease in the human body. Many studies indicate that our own mind is frequently the real culprit behind many illnesses. In his book The Healing of Persons, Dr. Paul Tournier discusses how our physical health is often related to the way we think. It is well known that mental attitude and stress can have an impact on how our body reacts to the onset of infection and disease. A poor state of mind can lower our natural defenses against many kinds of illness. Laughter, on the other hand, can free people from pain and lift off the blanket of stress. Since stress is recognized as a contributing factor to illness in our fast-paced society, relief from its grip can help prevent or lessen the effects of countless maladies.



Although an increasing number of people seem to be seeking a pharmaceutical solution to stress, pills are not the answer. We must directly attack the specific problems that manifest themselves as physical disease, such as overwork and mental anguish. A return to good health requires a new perspective on life, one that changes our attitude and addresses the root causes of our problems. Dr. Tournier’s approach is to attack the diseases of bitterness, hatred, gloom, and depression. If we can turn our mind to happiness, love, hope, and laughter, we often will be rewarded with good physical health.



Consider This: Medicine is no substitute for a healthy attitude toward life. When is the last time you had a belly laugh? Really enjoyed an activity? Took a real vacation? Your life may depend on it.



Submitted by Richard