As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a perfect time to focus on the power of gratitude. Did you know that people who have a great deal of gratitude enjoy more happiness and life satisfaction?
Feelings of gratitude have been shown to make us more resilient, boost optimism, increase self-esteem, and reduce depressive symptoms. Research has shown that focusing your attention on the positives rather than the negatives can actually change your outlook for the long term!
“Emphasizing the positive can create more positivity,” explains Jennifer Smith, PhD, Assistant Vice President and Director of Mather Institute. The Institute is an award-winning source of research and information on topics related to wellness, aging, and more—and it has local ties to Tysons, VA. It is the research area of Mather, the parent organization of The Mather, a residential wellness destination in Tysons for those 62 and better. The Mather incorporates research findings from Mather Institute in its resident programs and more.
Give Gratitude a Try
Incorporating gratitude into your daily life is a simple yet powerful practice. Consider adopting one or more of these habits this holiday season:
- Keep a gratitude journal: Take time every day to list five things you feel grateful for. Ideally, you’ll save your lists so you can look back on them over time. Reviewing them will also increase your positive feelings.
- Write thank-you notes: Write a note or email to someone who has had a positive impact on your life, whether it was a single action or a lifetime of support. Expressing your gratitude in writing gives you a chance to think more deeply about your thankfulness—and will make the recipient happy!
- Practice gratitude meditation. Make some quiet time to reflect on what you’re grateful for, then examine the feelings brought up when you identify those items, people, or experiences. Focusing on what you value will bring moments of peace and joy.
- Share gratitude. Find a “gratitude buddy”—perhaps your spouse, child, or a close friend—and take turns listing a few things you are grateful for. This adds extra depth to gratitude, as you can build off of each other’s comments.
- Take a gratitude walk. Take a stroll and look for positive things—from the walkability of your neighborhood to appealing sights and friendly people.
You can practice gratitude at any time! Whether you are naturally optimistic or not, regular gratitude practice can bring lasting benefits.
