What is gratitude?  My favorite explanation of gratitude is “a feeling of happiness that comes from appreciation.” According to the leading expert on gratitude, Robert Emmons, gratitude is “an affirmation of goodness while the sources of goodness are outside of ourselves.”  

Hundreds of studies in the past 10 years have documented the many benefits of gratitude. According to Mr. Emmons, these scientific benefits affect every area of our lives- psychological, physical and social.

The scientific benefits of gratitude include:

1. Practicing gratitude has proven to be one of the most reliable methods for increasing happiness and life satisfaction.

2. Gratitude enhances empathy.  Research indicates that grateful people are more likely to practice more appropriate social behaviors.

3. Gratitude reduces depression, anxiety and stress.

4. Being grateful is very good for schools.  Studies indicate that teachers feel more satisfied and less emotionally exhausted.  Also, research shows that students feel better about their schools.

5. Grateful people sleep better.  It is recommended to write in a gratitude journal every night before you go to sleep.

6. Gratitude makes us more resilient. Focusing on what we are grateful for in life, especially during challenging times, helps foster a sense of resiliency.

7. Being grateful strengthens relationships since it helps us feel more committed and closer to our loved ones.

8. Practicing gratitude is good for kids.  Studies show that kids between the ages of 10-19 who practice gratitude report a greater life satisfaction and more positive emotions.

9. Being grateful promotes forgiveness.

10. Gratitude improves physical health.  It strengthens the immune system, reduces symptoms of illness and lowers blood pressure.

The best part about practicing gratitude? It is 100% free!

This is a strategy you can implement hundreds of times without spending a dime, and often in less than one minute.

How to Implement a Gratitude Practice

The most simple way to practice gratitude is to write down 3 things for which you are thankful each morning or evening. This is a great exercise to add to a relaxation routine before going to bed, or to a mindfulness or meditation practice during the day.

You can also try practicing gratitude with your children.

Make it a habit to review 3 things for which you are all thankful while in the car on the way to school, on the way home in the afternoon, or while eating dinner together.

There is really no wrong way to practice gratitude so take a minute right now and identify 3 things for which you are grateful. I’ll bet you are feeling better already.

If you’re looking for support, please contact me to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.