The Health Benefits Of Being Grateful

Are you guilty? Probably. I know I am, of taking things for granted and complaining more often than not about all the things I’m not happy about or satisfied with in my life. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life in today’s society, it’s easy to lose sight and forget to show gratitude to others.

During difficult times it’s easy to feel as if there’s nothing to be thankful for. But showing gratitude towards others and being grateful for the things we have creates positive energy and gives a feeling of improved well-being. I usually feel a weight off my shoulders, when I make a conscious effort to acknowledge others more and express gratitude for the things I have. Gratitude can help boost your efforts towards a healthy lifestyle and it doesn’t cost a thing.

What Exactly is Gratitude? Gratitude can be described as a simple habit, an emotional trait or a coping response. A key component of gratitude is having an attitude of being thankful for the people and things that are meaningful to you. It is also a randomly acknowledging of others for their acts of kindness, regardless of how small or insignificant the good deed might be. Many notable successful people like Oprah, credit the regular practice of gratitude as one of the main reasons for their success.

Reduce Stress.

It’s no news that we are overly stimulated and stressed in today’s society. You don’t have to look very far to see the negative impact this has on overall health and well-being. Scientific experts have reported that having a grateful attitude can be an excellent way to deal with and respond to external stresses. As a matter of fact, someone who sees gratitude as a personal trait instead of an act, may be able to live a less stressful life. People who are grateful take better care of themselves, and participate in pro-health behaviors such as eating healthy, exercising and being socially active.

Boost Immunity.

People who are grateful are typically more optimistic and resilient, which may boost the immune system. Gratitude may have the same effect on your immune system as meditation. Many studies have shown that meditation helps your body build natural defenses that are essential for fighting illnesses like the common cold and flu.

Lower Blood Pressure.

Being grateful can also lead to a healthy heart by way of a low blood pressure. A feeling of appreciation for the things and people in your life can lead to lowering of your blood pressure. The calming effect of feeling appreciative produces physical and psychological changes within your body.

It is important to understand that nothing in life is too small to be grateful for. If you want to add more to your life, it is essential that you recognize the blessings you currently have in your life and the small everyday things you take for granted. I incorporate gratitude into my daily bed time routine with my family. We all (my four-year-old daughter included) have to list five things we are grateful for. It’s insightful to hear the things my family members are grateful for, which makes me even more grateful for them.

For the expression of gratitude to become a lifelong habit, it must practice daily. That’s right-practiced. Write down all of the blessings in your life and place your list in a place where you can see it daily. Add to the list as often as possible and you’ll soon see that you have a lot to be thankful for.