Cultivating Gratitude - How can gratitude change our lives?
What is gratitude?
Gratitude is the expression of appreciation for what one has, spontaneously generated from within; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
What are the benefits of gratitude?
Increased happiness and positive mood
More satisfaction with life
Less materialistic
Less likely to experience burnout
Better physical health
Less fatigue
Lower levels of cellular inflammation
Greater resiliency
Development of patience, humility, and wisdom
Decreased anxiety and depression, among other health benefits.
Health effects of gratitude
Ones mental and physical health can benefit from gratitude. People who spend more time experiencing gratitude seem to spend less time experiencing aches and pains or going to the doctor. Gratitude may engage people in behaviors that help keep them healthy, like eating well and not smoking.
Four things gratitude does
Gratitude disconnects us from toxic, negative emotions, so that our focus is on positive ones
Expressing gratitude helps us even if we don't explicitly share it with others.
The positive effects of writing gratitude list compound like interest.
A gratitude practice trains the brain to be more in tune with experiencing gratitude.
Why gratitude fails
As easy as gratitude is used, there is one thing that can get in the way of gratitude and that is Ingratitude.
Ingratitude might look like:
Excessive sense of self-importance
Arrogance
Vanity
Unquenchable need for admiration and approval
Sense of entitlement
If a person could only do one thing to increase their health and happiness, gratitude might be it. Practicing gratitude can be a game-changer; feeling grateful boosts happiness and fosters both physical and psychological health, even among those already struggling with mental health problems.
Simple ways to make gratitude a part of everyday
Keep a gratitude journal and add to it every day.
Notice the beauty in nature each day.
Include an act of kindness in your life each day.
Remember to compliment your friends and family when they look good.
Write a card to someone you haven’t seen in a while and tell them something nice.
When you think a negative thought, try to see the positive side in the situation.
Thank the people who serve you in the community — the shopkeeper, the bus drivers, etc.
Call your parents and tell them you love them.
Make gratitude a part of family life, share it with each other during mealtime.
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