What is it?

What exactly is gratitude?

As defined by Dr. Robert Emmons, noted psychologist and researcher at UC Davis, defines gratitude as the warm feeling we get when we give or receive a gift or a kindness. It’s a form of thankfulness, of not taking things for granted.

In practical terms, gratitude shifts our priorities from what we think we want and need, spending time and energy chasing things we don’t currently have, to the appreciation of, and thankfulness for, what we do have, even the small or seemingly insignificant things.

Just like eating well and getting enough rest and exercise, gratitude is one more small habit to add to your wellness routine that can make an enormous impact on your life.

What are the benefits?

Studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood and immunity. Gratitude can decrease depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain and risk of disease.

If gratitude was a pill, everyone would be taking it.

Here a just a few of the biggest benefits from practicing gratitude:

1. Improved Mental Health: Gratitude helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety while fostering a more positive outlook on life. It shifts the focus from negativity to positivity.

2. Enhanced Relationships: Expressing gratitude strengthens relationships by fostering a sense of connection and appreciation between individuals. It promotes empathy and compassion.

3. Better Sleep: A grateful mindset has been linked to improved sleep quality and duration, contributing to overall well-restedness.

4. Reduced Stress: Gratitude acts as a buffer against stress, allowing individuals to cope better with challenges and adversity.

5. Physical Health Benefits: Studies suggest that gratitude practices can lead to lower blood pressure, strengthened immune function, and reduced inflammation.

How do I practice it?

Incorporating gratitude into your life is simpler than it might seem. Here are some effective ways to cultivate gratitude:

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you are grateful for each day. This practice helps focus your mind on the positive aspects of life.

2. Express Appreciation: Tell someone you appreciate them. A heartfelt "thank you" can go a long way in strengthening relationships.

3. Mindful Moments: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Whether it's when you wake up in the morning, a walk, or before bed, these moments of reflection can be powerful.

4. Gratitude Exercises: Practice mindfulness-based gratitude exercises, such as focusing on your senses and being present in the moment.

 

Simplified

Sunsets.
Friendship.
Your favorite teacher or coach.
Good health.

What are you grateful for? How easily does expressing gratitude come to you?

Gratitude is a positive emotion that can arise when you acknowledge that you have goodness in your life and that others have helped you achieve that goodness.

Gratitude has a huge impact on our overall wellness. It offers numerous mental, emotional, and physical health benefits, including improved mental health, enhanced relationships, better sleep, stress reduction, and potential physical health improvements.

Practicing gratitude is simple and can be done through journaling, expressing appreciation to others, and mindful moments of reflection, making it easy and adaptable to anyone's daily routine.