Give gratitude for happiness

Blog by Norma 
Gratitude is such a simple word that holds much meaning. During the holidays, we often emphasize feeling and expressing gratitude. Expressing and acknowledging our gratitude is a simple gesture that can reap many benefits. 

Studies have shown that showing gratitude can increase happiness. It helps us feel positive emotions, improve our health, build strong relationships, deal with adversity, and remember good experiences.

A study by Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami showed that during the 10-week study, participants who wrote down what they were grateful for were more optimistic and happier about life than the other participants. Other studies on gratitude have shown that expressing our gratitude to others can also increase happiness. 

Being grateful for what we have, what we have experienced, or the simple things in life can positively affect our mental well-being. Taking the time to be mindful of gratitude is a simple way to develop gratitude. Here are some ways in which we can nurture our gratitude: 

• Write a thank you note: show your gratitude to someone with something as simple as a thank you note; this can positively impact your life and the person receiving the thank you note
• Keep a gratitude journal: make a habit of writing down what you are grateful for 
• Meditate: focus on the present through meditation and think about what you are grateful for 
• Take time to actively think about what you are grateful for. This can include making a list, sitting with the said list, and focusing on how events throughout your month, week, or day made you feel grateful. 

Showing gratitude might seem mundane, but the simplest things often fill our lives with joy and renewed happiness. Incorporating more time to reflect on what we are grateful for, not just during the holidays, is a simple way to increase our joy. 

Source: Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, August 14). Giving thanks can make you happier. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier