What does Gratitude really mean? What is the science behind it and why is Gratitude so powerful?
I am Grateful ....
So, What is Gratitude?
Many of us express gratitude by saying “thank you” to someone who has helped us or given us a gift. However, it is much more than just an action. It is also a positive emotion - a deeper appreciation for someone/something that produces longer lasting positivity.
In fact, it may be one of the most overlooked tools that we all have access to every day. It’s cost-free and not very time consuming, yet the benefits are huge.
The Benefits and the positive effects of Gratitude:
1. Improves physical health. Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and tend to feel healthier than other people.
3. Improves psychological health Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret.
4. Enhances empathy & reduces aggression Grateful people experience more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and a decreased desire to seek revenge. The world needs more of this!
5. Sleep better Writing down a few grateful sentiments before bed can improve your sleep quality and duration.
6. Improves self-esteem and reduces social comparisons. Grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments and not feel resentful.
7. Increases mental strength Recognizing all you have to be thankful for – even during the worst times of your life – boosts resilience.
Now What?
The great news is that we all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude. "Developing an "attitude of gratitude" is one of the simplest ways to improve your satisfaction with life.
Feel the positive emotions of Gratitude
Try these tips below:
Write down up to 3 things you are grateful for, no matter how big or small
Spend at least 30 seconds simply just bathing in the good feeling that comes when you think of each thing or person
TOP TIPS:
Be as specific as possible
Mix up the things you’re grateful for to avoid gratitude fatigue
Aim to practise at same time each day
Have some sort of reminder – a visual prompt like a Post It note or a journal and an alarm
Final Advice
So there you have it , an insight into the power of gratitude. Such a simple yet profound practice. It can even be a wonderful thing to bring in to your rehabilitation from an injury. It is important to recognise the good things that we do have. Like the parts of our body which are working well. This shift in perspective can help lessen the impact of the emotional and mental challenges that come with recovering from an injury. A small daily practice can make the whole journey of the recovery much more manageable.
" Gratitude opens the door to.. the power, the wisdom, the creativity of the universe. You open the door through gratitude " Deepak Chopra
