Positive thinking could boost immune response to vaccines, say scientists

The study found boosting activity in the ventral tegmental area, a part of the brain’s reward system, had the strongest immune response. Photograph: Rob Daly/Getty Images

Positive thoughts may boost the immune system according to research that points to a connection between the mind and our body’s natural defences.

Scientists have found people who used positive thinking to boost activity in the brain’s reward system responded better to vaccination, with their immune systems producing more antibodies than others after having the shot.