Gratitude is not only a way to show thanks and build relationships with others, it also has been shown to be beneficial to your health. Returning kindness may help improve sleep, decrease symptoms of pain, decrease inflammation, lower blood pressure, encourage healthier eating behaviors and weight as well as decrease some unhealthy behaviors such as smoking. From a spiritual aspect, studies suggest giving thanks may promote a more meaningful life, higher quality relationships and improve mental health.
Understanding gratitude
According to Oxford, gratitude is the quality of being thankful and having a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. This can be for something tangible or intangible. Showing gratitude acknowledges something positive. This also helps people to realize the connection with others and that goodness lies both inside and outside of themselves. One study even suggested giving gratitude increases satisfaction in overall life.
Ways to show gratitude
Giving thanks does not have to be something large and extravagant. It can be as simple as waving, saying thank you or opening a door. Here are some examples of how you can show gratitude to yourself, to others and your community.
Personally
- Write down 3 things you are grateful for each day
- Feel lucky for something Ex. Health, food, family, etc.
- Treat yourself
Toward other individuals
- Smile
- Be present showing interest
- Send a note either by letter or email
To the community
- Volunteer
- Donate
- Support local
References:
https://news.usc.edu/163123/gratitude-health-research-thanksgiving-usc-experts/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02480/full#:~:text=Research%20has%20found%20that%20higher,life%2C%20and%20self%2Dacceptance
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