In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness.
Every festive season comes with high expectations and these times bring with them different negative emotions, from sadness, anxiety, or depression. Because of failure to reach targets, goals, and dreams for the year and many end up feeling lost and overwhelmed.
It’s time to flip the switch.
Thanksgiving season can actually lift the spirits, and it’s built right into the holiday — being grateful.
The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). In some ways, gratitude encompasses all of these meanings. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, being grateful also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or a higher power.
You can practice gratitude in lots of different ways, such as:
- gratitude exercises, such as journaling
- paying attention to the little things in life, like the birds in the trees
- telling someone you’re grateful for them or for something they did, even if it was a long time ago
- doing something kind for someone in your life to express your gratitude
- meditating on the positive aspects of your life
- giving thanks through prayer
Benefits of practicing gratitude include; boosting the immune system, improving your mental health, increasing your optimising, and improving your relationship among others.
Remember, it’s simple. Gratitude involves recognition of the positive things in your life and how they affect you. This can range from acknowledging a beautiful flower you walk-pass on the sidewalk to the feeling of thanks that comes from recovering from a serious illness.
IBIENE is grateful that you are a part of our community in 2022.
Do you have any question or comment? Do share with us in the comment section.