Isn’t it true that we have all at some point chased extraordinary moments to find happiness?

In reality happiness is right here, in front of us. You can see it if you start paying attention and practicing gratitude.

There are only a few months left and then the year will come to an end. This is a perfect time to look back and be thankful for everything this year has offered us.

Being thankful brings tremendous benefits to your quality of life.

Unfortunately, it is one of the most overlooked tools we have access to on a daily basis. Developing the habit of gratitude doesn’t take much time or skill, but the benefits are enormous.

Here are 7 scientifically proved ways in which gratitude can improve your life.

  1. OPPORTUNITIES FOR MORE RELATIONSHIPS

Saying “Thank you” is not only about good manner, but it also helps you to win new friends. A study published in Emotion revealed that saying thank-you makes people more likely to seek an ongoing relationship.

2. GRATITUDE CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Did you notice that grateful people experience fewer aches and pains? In fact, they feel healthier than other people. In a study that was published in The Personality and Individual Differences found that grateful people are more likely to take care of their health. They are also more likely to exercise and see their doctors regularly for routine check-ups.

3. IT IMPROVES PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH

Multiple studies have found that gratitude eliminates multitudes of toxic emotions ranging from envy and resentment to regret and frustration. A leading gratitude researcher, Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D. observed through several studies clear links between gratitude and well being. His findings prove that gratitude is effective in increasing happiness and reducing depression.

4. GRATITUDE REDUCES AGGRESSION

According to a study at the University of Kentucky, grateful people behave in a pro-social manner even when others around them behave don’t behave as kindly. In the study it was observed that people who ranked higher in the scales were less likely to retaliate against others. They were more sensitive, had more empathy towards other people, and had less desire to take revenge.

5. SLEEP WELL 

People who regularly maintain a gratitude journal or practice some form of gratitude get better sleep. A study that was published in Applied Psychology outlined that only 15 minutes of jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed can help you sleep better and longer.

6. IMPROVES YOUR SELF ESTEEM

A study that was published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that people who practice gratitude experience increased self-esteem. In another similar study it was observed that people who are not resentful about other people having more money or better jobs were able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.

7. GRATITUDE INCREASES MENTAL STRENGTH

Studies have found gratitude not only helps reduce stress, it also helps overcome trauma. In one study that was published in Behavior Research and Therapy, it was found that Vietnam War Veterans who have gratitude experienced less Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The best way to cultivate gratitude is to start your day by being thankful. We all have something to be thankful for – for example, family, your favorite song, nice weather, good friends.

It takes only a few minutes to be thankful and fill your heart with gratitude.

XOXO,

Rosalidia Dubon

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