When we think of happiness, we usually think of it as a subjective sense of well-being, a feeling of joy and satisfaction. What many people may not realize is that happiness isn’t just an emotion or fleeting feeling.
When you feel joyful, but also feel your life has meaning, you’re more appreciative of what you have.
Much scientific evidence has shown that gratitude has far-reaching effects on our health. When people are thankful and are good with things as they are, their physical health reflects that. They’re more likely to exercise, eat better, and take care of their health.
Gratitude has a strong positive impact on psychological well-being as well. It increases self-esteem, enhances positive emotions and makes us more optimistic.
When we feel deep happiness, our bodies are producing all sorts of wonderful chemicals.
How to Practice Gratitude
Just like a muscle, when you exercise your thankfulness more often, you’re more likely to see beneficial effects.
You have less pressure, less stress, and more time for what they enjoy.
Activate Gratitude Regularly
The best way to make gratitude a habit is not to wait for special moments. Some people have been told by their therapists they can keep stress and anxiety at bay by keeping a gratitude journal. Journaling every day is also correlated with an increase in happiness.
But if you’re not ready for that kind of commitment, there’s an easy way to begin on your road to being grateful. Just pay attention. Start identifying things you might take for granted. Then, take a moment to be thankful for them.
Be sure to consider positive actions and events that might seem small, common-place or inconsequential. Here are some examples:
Be thankful for the warm cup of tea you are enjoying.
Look up and appreciate the roof over your head.
Notice the small acts of kindness that you forgot to pay attention to.
Be thankful someone waved your car through in the parking lot.
Be appreciative of the friendly customer in line at Starbucks who allowed you to go ahead of them.
Take a moment to be grateful that your best friend texted you to see how your headache was.
Stop to be thankful that your hard-working mother texted you to have a nice night.
This is, of course, not an exhaustive list as there are a variety of ways to cultivate gratitude. So, get creative and tailor them to your own life!
