At some time or another, you’ve probably heard, “it doesn’t cost much to say thank you” or “a little appreciation goes a long way”. As it turns out, gratitude offers pretty powerful benefits, especially when it comes to health and wellness. And it doesn’t cost a thing!
It’s not just hype, studies have shown that giving thanks can make you happier. Mindfulness, increased optimism, better sleep and reduced stress are just a few of the reasons you might want to stop and count your blessings each day.
Practicing gratitude – toward others and toward ourselves – can help us to think more positively; the more we think about what we are grateful for, the more we find to be grateful for!
The positive effects of practicing gratitude are powerful.You might not notice the benefit right away, but it won’t take long. It just takes a little practice, that’s all. Here’s some tips on how to cultivate an attitude of gratitude:
Count your blessings
Take a few minutes each and every day to reflect on what you are thankful for: 3 to 5 things, big or small. Maybe you got a promotion at work or maybe you’re grateful that the sun is shining. Whatever you choose, just be present in that moment and be mindful of the positivity that surrounds you.
Write it down
Keep a daily gratitude journal. Each day, jot down the things, people or situations for which you are grateful. It only takes a minute. You could even include something that you hope to be grateful for in the future, as if willing it to happen. For example, you might write something like: “I am thankful for the family reunion this fall”.
Meditate on it
There’s a lot to be said for present moment awareness. Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment. Breathe, relax, focus on what you’re grateful for (morning hugs, spring tulips, reconnecting with an old friend) and let the positivity flow!
Say thank you
Grateful actions lead to contagious positivity. A simple “thank you” can snowball into something very powerful. Cultivate gratitude in yourself and nurture relationships with others by recognizing your appreciation for who they are or what they do. Express gratefulness in a real and meaningful way, either in person, in a letter/email/text, or even just a thought. It only takes a minute, but can mean so much.
Nothing boosts your mood like gratitude. So go ahead, celebrate the present…. and hey, thanks for reading!
Interested in learning more ways to enhance your health and well-being? Check out our article, Why Gut Health is Important.