Positive Emotions and Heart-Healthy Behaviors

Researchers at Penn State tracked more than 1,000 patients with coronary heart disease. They were evaluated for negative and positive emotions along with their health habits. The researchers found that as positive emotions developed, they were associated with less smoking, greater physical activity, better sleep quality, and more adherence to medications. Of course we don't know if making the physical changes first then led to more positive emotions. It could be a two way street.  

The original article: 

1. Nancy L. Sin, Judith Tedlie Moskowitz, Mary A. Whooley. Positive Affect and Health Behaviors Across 5 Years in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease. Psychosomatic Medicine, 2015; 1 DOI: 10.1097/PSY.0000000000000238