By Melvyn Howe

Once upon a time getting sick meant visiting the doctor, reaching for a bottle of aspirin or simply toughing it out.

But attitudes are changing as studies around the world appear to show links between thinking and health.

It has long been recognised that stress, for example, affects the body and appears to be responsible for a whole range of ailments – both physical and mental.

However, research also suggests gratitude, forgiveness, humour, prayer etc., have a beneficial effect on our well-being.

This blog by Melvyn Howe was published on This is Bristol on May 12, 2012.