What if something as simple as a little more gratitude, joyfulness combined with a few delicious foods (and my Blissful Boost Smoothie below) could help you live longer, think more clearly, and even strengthen your immune system?
It turns out, it can.
According to researcher Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, most of us are walking around with less positivity than our bodies and brains actually need. In fact, she found that over 80% of people experience fewer positive emotions than what's considered the "optimal ratio" for well-being. And this may be what is quietly fueling the rise in chronic stress, burnout, and health conditions that are now becoming all too common in everyday life.
But the good news? We can change that—starting with just a few small shifts. Take a look at these 10 emotions that not only feel good but also better our overall health, wellness, and longevity!
🌿 Top 10 Positive Emotions That Boost Your Health
Here are 10 uplifting emotions that do more than just feel good—they do good for your body and mind:
Joy – Sparks creativity and motivation
Gratitude – Lowers blood pressure and boosts relationships
Serenity – Calms your nervous system
Interest – Keeps your brain sharp and engaged
Hope – Builds resilience during hard times
Pride – Reinforces self-worth and growth
Amusement – Relieves tension and increases connection
Inspiration – Encourages purpose and action
Awe – Expands perspective and reduces stress
Love – The most powerful of all—it combines many of the above!
These emotions act like nutrients—feeding your body, balancing your mood, and even improving your long-term health.
“Even a single positive emotion can shift our perspective, rewire our brain, and change the day.”
– Inspired by Barbara Fredrickson
🥑 Eat to Feel Good: Mood-Boosting Foods
Yes, thats right...you really can choose foods to create your way to a better mood! Certain foods help your brain produce feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, while also calming inflammation and balancing blood sugar. Try adding a few of these to your day. How many do you eat now daily?
Leafy greens (like spinach and arugula) – Full of folate, which supports mood regulation
Berries – High in antioxidants that protect the brain from stress
Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, walnuts, chia seeds) – Help ease anxiety and depression
Dark chocolate (70% or higher) – Boosts endorphins and contains magnesium
Fermented foods (like yogurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut) – Support gut health, which is closely tied to emotional well-being
Bananas – Rich in vitamin B6 and natural sugars for a gentle lift
Green tea – Calming and focus-enhancing thanks to L-theanine
🌸 Pro tip: Try combining a few of these into a beautiful smoothie ( like my Blissful Boost Smoothie below, or a simple salad.
Since it is my birthday I may even add a candle on top!
🧡 Blissful Boost Smoothie
Serves 1 – Naturally mood-boosting and full of stabilizing energy.
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any nut/ non dairy milk)
1 small frozen banana
½ cup frozen blueberries ( and a few for on top)
1 small handful baby spinach
1 tablespoon almond butter or PB
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoons raw cacao powder (for a little bliss boost) or add cacao nibs on top.
Instructions
Blend all ingredients on high until smooth and creamy. I like to pour my smoothie in a pre-frozen tall glass, a hydro flask, or a Yeti cup. Sip slowly, breathe deeply, and feel the good settle in.
🌿 Pro Tip: Add a scoop of plant-based protein for an extra brain and body boost.
🌟 Ready to Feel Better, Brighter, and More You?
If you're curious about how to bring more of these positive practices into your everyday life—body, mind, and spirit—I'd love to talk with you.
I’ve created four new programs rooted in positive psychology and whole-body wellness to help you feel stronger, lighter, and more aligned with your the life you are ready to live!
Let’s grow something beautiful—from the inside out.
