Often as the holidays come around, a shift in mindset happens and feeling of gratitude will show up. Adopting an attitude of gratitude can have endless benefits. Whether you choose to show gratitude with words or in a gratitude journal or just taking a moment to give thanks and feel grateful, you are creating and attracting a wave of positivity. According to many studies, having a grateful outlook on life has all kinds of benefits. We all have the ability to cultivate gratitude in our lives and we can all find things to be grateful for. Rather then complain about all the things you do not have, come up with what you do have and your feelings about your life will shift.
What is gratitude?
Gratitude is the state of being grateful, it is the act of focusing on the parts of your life that you are thankful for.
The science behind the benefits of being grateful
There are many studies over the past decade that have found that people who are grateful tend to be happier and less depressed. Gratitude has been shown to cause positive benefits in relationships, physical health and psychological health. Relationships can be richer with gratitude. A study found that thanking a new acquaintance makes them interested in continuing a relationship. Showing gratitude in relationships makes longer lasting relationships. People who are grateful are able to see other’s accomplishments rather than being resentful of someone else’s successes.
A 2012 study found that people that are more grateful tend to have less aches and pains. Grateful people are more likely to have a good self care practice and they exercise more, both increasing their longevity. People who practice gratitude are said to have a better quality of sleep. A study in 2011, found that if you write down what you are grateful for before you go to sleep, you may sleep longer and better.
Adopting an attitude of gratitude is a great way to heal as it can help with overcoming trauma, reducing stress, and boosting mental strength. Research has also confirmed that gratitude increases happiness and well-being while reducing depression. Being grateful is said to also have a connection with self-esteem.
Gratitude boosting practices
There are a number of ways that you can boost gratitude in your life.
- Gratitude journalling
- Writing letters or notes of gratitude to other people who you are thankful for
- Appreciate everything
- Express your gratitude in words to someone who you are thankful for
- Volunteer and start the gratitude cycle
- Practice mindfulness, quiet the mind and think about things you are grateful for
Adopting an attitude of gratitude will reflect in your daily life. By taking intentional space to be grateful and show gratitude to others, not only will your relationships improve, but how you feel about yourself will transform and you can cultivate a life of health, wellness and longevity.
Be grateful,
~ Alex