By Kay Leaman, Health Architect, HealthyDay HealthyLife
There’s been a lot of talk of late about gratitude. A “gratitude” is being grateful for something or someone: a positive comment from a friend or stranger, the sun on your face, the project that finally got completed, a wagging tail or leg rub from your favorite pet after ‘one of those days.’
Since ancient times, religious scholars and philosophers have been interested in the effects of gratitude, but it wasn’t until the 1950’s that psychologists and sociologists began studying the impact this emotion has on one’s health and well-being.
The practice of acknowledging our gratitude can have a significant impact on our physical and psychological health including:
• Improved sleep
• A stronger immune system
• Decreased stress and lower blood pressure
• Less anxiety and depression
• Improved self-esteem
• Higher levels of optimism.
It can also improve our desire to engage in healthier lifestyle practices. Gratitude helps us to focus on the present and magnify positive emotions.
“Gratitudes” come from an emotion, a mood or a disposition. Sometimes it’s a choice.
I’ve been encouraged to start a grateful journal, and although I practice gratefulness, I haven’t been very consistent in the journaling. Some days have proven to be a struggle to find something to be grateful for, but then I remember the song by Blue Sky Riders “The sun comes up, it’s another day and your heart still beats and you say Hey, I’m still breathing. Take it from me, these little victories are all the heart needs.” So, gratefulness doesn’t need to be great; it just needs to be real and from the heart.
Consider adding a grateful journal and a pen by the bedside and begin writing at least 1-2 “gratitudes” you experience each day (stocking stuffer!). We have so much to be grateful for. I challenge each of you to engage in this practice and share the changes that take place. I can tell you it’s both fun, amazing and strengthening. It can make family and friends laugh and cry. It renews hope and inspires us for tomorrow.
Currently, I am grateful for my five senses, the food on my table and the bed I sleep in. I am also very grateful for where I live and the freedoms I still have.
As Thanksgiving approaches and we share our “gratitudes,” be mindful that what we are grateful for can come from pain or joy and everything in between. That spoken gratitude is important and meaningful. And, if you’re in a place where “gratitudes” are too difficult, borrow someone else’s.
Have a surprising and meaningful Thanksgiving holiday.
Here’s to Health!
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