Research Says Gratitude Helps Us Live Longer, More Fulfilling Lives Giving Thanks Is Healthier Than You Think
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Thanksgiving is a healthy reminder that gratitude is an important part of our lives. And we really do mean healthy — researchers have found that gratitude significantly increases happiness, improves sleep, boosts immunity, and decreases risk of disease. The Power of Writing About Gratitude In one study, psychologists from University of California, Davis and University of Miami asked participants to write a few sentences each week, focusing on particular topics. One group wrote about what they were grateful for during the week. Another group wrote about daily irritations or things that displeased them. A third group wrote about events that had affected them, with no direction on whether they had to be positive or negative. After 10 weeks, those who wrote about gratitude were significantly more optimistic and felt more positively about their lives. Surprisingly, they even exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on negativity. With higher levels of optimism, some studies suggest that you reduce your heart disease risk by at least 77%, and you’re much more likely to live past 85. A study by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology shows that the benefits of gratitude are even multidimensional, not just improving our minds and bodies but also our connections with family, friends, and colleagues. How long do these effects last? While they’re best enjoyed with a gradual long-term habit of practicing gratitude, further studies have shown that feeling or expressing gratitude leaves long-lasting effects on the brain, lasting up to 12 weeks or more in some studies. If you want to improve your mood, a daily practice is best — and starting with a gratitude journal can be a powerful tool. Try writing down at least three things you’re grateful for every morning and three things you’re glad happened that day before bed. There’s even a free Five-Minute Journal app, based on the famous “Five-Minute Journal,” to get you started. Gratitude Cues Work, Too Any habit needs reminders, so why not set up photos of people, activities, or things that make you happy? With positive notes, images, and/or inspirational quotes in view, you can always reinforce your feelings of gratitude. At DL Jones Homes Team, we couldn’t be more grateful for our supportive clients and partners who make our business possible — we’re always reminded how lucky we are to have you. Thank you so much, and our team wishes you a beautiful Thanksgiving.
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