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Gratitude


Gratitude
Gratitude is an emotion expressing appreciation for what one has.  It is more than just saying “thank you”, because its meaning goes deeper.  When one practices gratitude, they reflect on what they are thankful for.  Some may refer to this as “counting your blessings”.  It is acknowledging that life is good.  True gratitude is a selfless act that is done unconditionally, but it can be contagious.  It can also be quite cathartic. 

The benefits of expressing gratitude are numerous.  People practicing gratitude may experience positive emotions, sleep better, and have less depression and anxiety.  Their immune systems may become stronger, and they may express more kindness and compassion. 

Take a moment each day to notice new things that you are grateful for.  Start a gratitude journal.  It may change the way that you perceive situations.  When you are relaxed and feeling good, you are happier.  When you have your negative emotions in check, you are happier.  Gratitude for healthy relationships and more social interactions leads to a happier life.  People can sense when you are thankful and gracious.  People are attracted to that.  Gratitude makes you less materialistic, because you are content with what you already have.  You become more optimistic, and your self-esteem increases.  You realize that it’s not all about you.  When you sleep better, exercise more, and eat healthy, you are not only happier, but you also live longer.  When you are grateful, your productivity increases, your decision making is improved, and you achieve your goals! 

Gratitude leads to happiness.

How do you practice gratitude? 

  • ·      Take five minutes each day to write in a gratitude journal.  Just five minutes will make a difference. 
  • ·        Make a gratitude jar…or box or can.  Each day, write down on a little slip of paper three things that you are grateful for.  Do this every day until your jar is full. 
  • ·        Go for a walk.  Walking is a great stress reliever.  It can be quite cathartic as well.  As you walk, take time to look at the trees, flowers, houses, and people around you.  Find things along your walk that you are thankful for.  And while you are on this walk, smile at the people that you pass by.  Really observe your surroundings.  Notice the textures, colors, sounds, and smells of your environment.  Be aware of nature.  Stop and smell the roses!
  • ·        Practice mindfulness meditation.  Sit in a quiet place and reflect on what you are grateful for. 
  • ·        Send a message of gratitude.  Whether it is a phone call, email, text, or a handwritten letter, let someone know that you are grateful for them.  It will help you appreciate them, and it will mean a great deal to the recipient.  This will help strengthen your social bond with them, as well.  Express how your life has been benefitted from having this person in it. 
  • ·        Make a collage.  Much like a vision board, make a collage of the things that you are grateful for.  Visualizing your gratitude will have a greater impact than just writing the words down on paper. 
  • ·        Say “thank you” and really mean it!  Not only is it good manners, but it will also make the recipient happy.  It shows thoughtfulness and consideration. 
  • ·        Prayer.  If you are religious in nature, say a prayer of gratitude.



My book,  The Heart of Happiness, is available on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/2IZpXNP

Website:  www.ChristyEidson.com
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