Smile- A lot. It Just Might Save Your Life

One of the keys to a longer, healthier life just might be your smile. In a recent study of more than 6,000 adults over 50, scientists found that those with sunny dispostiions had a significantly reduced risk of a stroke. Optimistic people tend to make healthier choices about diet and exercise, researchers speculate: some findings also suggest positive thinking has a direct influence on how well your body works. The glass half-full approach doesn't help only your heart, it may boost your mood, immune system and longevity. Here are 4 strategies to help brighten your outlook and boost your health:

1. Shift 1 perspective at a time. Pick a part of your life you tend to cast in an unfavorable light and focus on fixing your thinking there. For example, your commute to work. Instead of working your self into a tizzy sitting in traffic, think of it as uninterrupted alone time or as more time to listen to your favorite radio station.

2. Let yourself laugh. You'll feel less stressed, even during difficult times.

3. Hang out with happy people. It'll rub off on you- plus, those are the friends that you can depend on when you are feeling down.

4. Negative thoughts, positive talk. Don't say anything to yourself that you wouldn't say to someone else. And when a negative thought enters your mind, evaluate it rationally and give it a positive twist.