Throughout the month of November, it is common to hear people talking about what they are thankful for in their lives. People have even gone to the extent of sharing their daily gratitude on social media sites. Have you ever stopped to wonder why expressing gratitude is important? We all know that warm-fuzzy feeling we get when we tell someone what we are thankful for, but what’s even more compelling are the many other significant benefits of expressing gratitude that we tend to overlook.
[Hang tight—we are going to get nerdy for a second.] Research studies have found that people who practice gratitude regularly experience significant positive effects on their overall well-being. Practicing gratitude has been linked to more energy, less anxiety, improved mood, better sleep, feeling more connected to others, and even fewer physical health issues just to name a few. Who doesn’t want that?!
Gratitude is incredibly powerful and almost effortless to do. It is one of the shortest paths to happiness and an overall positive well-being. There are a variety of ways to practice gratitude regularly. One of my personal favorites is to keep a daily gratitude journal and write down 1-2 things you are grateful for each day (“I am grateful for the unexpected smile from a stranger. I am grateful for a warm meal.”). You can also write a note or letter of gratitude to a friend or family member. And if those seem too overwhelming, the simple act of mindfully reflecting on a few things you are grateful for each day will do the trick.
With the changing season, colder weather (it’s getting very chilly here in MN!), and stress of the impending holidays, it can be easy to focus on what isn’t going well and forget about the simple joys that surround us each day.
What are you grateful for today?
While gratitude may help improve our overall well-being, there may be times where practicing gratitude alone is not enough to improve your overall mood. Do you feel like you are having a harder time than other people in your life right now? Does practicing gratitude feel like a chore? Consider getting some extra support and schedule an individual therapy appointment today. We are here to help Embolden YOU!
