What if there was just one thing you could do each day that would improve your physical and psychological health, open the door to new relationships while improving existing ones, increase your mental strength and even help you sleep better? Sound too good to be true?
Turns out, being grateful can have all these positive health effects and more. Studies show practicing gratitude can lead to more intimate and connected relationships, less depression, more motivation and engagement, and better overall mental well-being. Here are a few proven facts that will make you wonder why we celebrate it only one day a year.
- Gratitude opens the door to new relationships and enhances existing ones. According to a 2014 study published in Emotion thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or you send a quick thank-you note to that co-worker who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities. Also, being thankful for the important people in your life is more likely to be reciprocated. Mutual appreciation for each other often results in a more satisfying relationship.
- Gratitude improves your physical health. Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains. They report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. Not surprisingly, grateful people are also more likely to take care of their health. They exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups with their doctors, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.
- Gratitude improves your psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.
- Grateful people sleep better.Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Spend just a few minutes jotting down 3 grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer. At the end of a month you will have nearly 100 things for which you are grateful to reflect on. A good read!
- Gratitude increases mental strength. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a major role in overcoming trauma. Recognizing all you have to be thankful for – even during the worst times of your life – fosters resilience.
So here is my quick tip – When you feel like your life is a roller coaster ride how do you keep the highs and lows in perspective? Gratitude – for both.
