The relationship between healthier emotional states and physical states has been well documented. A variety of studies have shown that people who have higher satisfaction with life level are less likely to fall ill or if they do, are more likely to recover.

This link could be influenced by several variables. Stress, anxiety, and depression have been known to compromise the immune system, blood pressure levels, energy levels and cardiovascular function. They are often associated with stomach pain, nausea, headaches, and migraines. Feeling positive means that you are far less likely to feel these negative emotions.

Positive emotions also predict the likelihood of engaging in proactive and healthy behaviours such as exercise and eating a balanced diet. Conversely, negative emotions increase the probability of indulging in unhealthy behaviours such as alcoholism, smoking, substance abuse, physical inactivity and eating junk food.

When you have a chronic illness, there is still a lot which is out of your control. Your genetics, the effectiveness of the medication and the severity of your condition are all major factors which impact what happens to you. Whatever your illness management goals, you will want to focus your mind on the factors you can control.  This means concentrating on both your emotional and physical fitness. You may want to consider cultivating one or two of the following factors:

1. Relationships

 Studies have shown that having close relationships with a spouse, partner, offspring, sibling, or good friend increases the likelihood of improving health conditions.

2. Community

Being part of a supportive community has been linked to improvements in physical conditions. This can be defined as you see fit if you are feeling a part of a collective whole. Online illness support groups are an excellent option if your condition limits you from interacting with others.

3. Finances

 Being in a comfortable financial position alleviates a lot of stress and anxiety which can compromise your physical health. Consider factors such as how much you can work, how much you can budget, passive income sources, monthly benefits, financial aid or even help from close family.

4. Meaning

Studies have linked the ability to derive meaning and purpose out of a chronic illness to the management of the condition. It has also been shown to lead to an improvement in symptoms in some cases.

5. Self-Regulation

This refers to both self-discipline and control over one’s emotions. People who manage themselves effectively are more equipped to calm themselves down and formulate healthier routines. Even if this is not in your nature, think about starting very small and gradually expanding on these abilities.

6. Focusing on The Positive

When you see the positive under the most negative circumstances it can help to improve both your emotional and physical state. This does not mean deluding yourself, but rather recognizing there is some grey area in what could seem like a black or white situation.

7. Optimism

Studies have linked feeling optimistic to improvements in physical health. Some people have a naturally optimistic disposition, others must work for it. Thinking about your best possible self, gratitude journaling and identifying strengths are great psychological based interventions for achieving this.

8. Physical Fitness

Physical fitness correlates with physical health. If you were physically fit before your illness, then it will be easier for you to reach those levels after your health has suffered. Physical fitness also predicts emotional health due to its correlation to meaning, purpose and proactivity. If you have never been a physically fit person, think about which activities you would most likely enjoy and incorporate them into your daily routine. Initially, you will want to incorporate it for brief periods, to cater to your physical limits and sustain motivation.

9. Self-Care

This means resting, relaxing, binge-watching your favourite tv show, listening to your favourite music and whatever else you can indulge in. Having too many people or responsibilities to manage is linked to deterioration in physical health. On the other hand, self-care has been linked to improvements in emotional and physical wellbeing.

10.  Goals Setting

Studies have linked goal setting to improvements in mental health and chronic medical conditions. Setting goals leads to achieving small wins which boosts morale. Goal setting also helps to establish purpose and meaning which increase energy. Goal setting is especially effective when applied to acquiring healthy behaviours such as exercise and diet. Think about which small wins would help you to feel more enthusiastic and optimistic.