Indulging in a little silliness may have serious health benefits. Cardiologists at the University of Maryland Medical Center found a stronger sense of humor in people with healthy hearts than in those who had suffered a heart attack. They conclude that "laughter is the best medicine" – especially when it comes to protecting your heart.
Don't Hold a Grudge
Part of living in the moment is letting bygones be bygones. Let go of old grudges, and you'll literally breathe easier. Chronic anger has been linked to a decline in lung function, while forgiveness contributes to lower blood pressure and reduced anxiety. People who forgive also tend to have higher self-esteem.
Take Naps
You won't catch your pet going from dawn to dusk without any shut-eye. There's good evidence humans can benefit from catnaps, too. A study involving about 24,000 people indicates regular nappers are 37% less likely to die from heart disease than people who nap only occasionally. Short naps can also enhance alertness and job performance.
Cultivate Friendships
People are social animals, and friendships have measurable health benefits. Researchers in Australia followed 1,500 older people for 10 years. Those with the most friends were 22% less likely to die than those with the fewest friends.
My kids, and grand kids get a kick out of "Don't call me between one and three, thats nap time". The wife laughs that I plan my day so I can do things in the morning, and be finished by one, and things in the afternoon, AFTER THREE. Those little naps really do refresh me. SOme times i sleep for maybe an hour, and then just sort of relax, and strech out. Makes me feel great.
