can’t always control your circumstances, but you
can control how you respond to them.”
Psychology’s New Emphasis
Dr. Edith Eger’s life speaks eloquently to
a growing realization among mental health
professionals: we all have the capacity to cultivate
an optimistic attitude even in the midst of setbacks
and difficulties. Indeed, while many of us believe our
emotions are determined by our circumstances, the
evidence indicates otherwise. You can control your
emotions—in spite of your surroundings!
However, our emotions are affected by
more than our thoughts. Most notably, our daily
lifestyle choices profoundly impact our emotional
state. Let’s look at several factors which can help us
remain in the driver’s seat in this important realm of
mental health.
Dietary Practices
Animal studies reveal that unhealthful dietary
practices impair the brain’s emotional circuitry—
during development as well as in maturity. Examples
include nutritional deficiencies, excessive salt intake,
and high fat diets.4 The bottom line is this: opt for
a diet that emphasizes low-sodium, nutrient-dense
whole plant foods (fruits, whole grains, vegetables,