Want to alter your mood for the better? Even improve your health? Practice gratitude.
So, what is Gratitude? Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful: readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
I chose this photo because like all of us I have been through many trials that could have crushed me. This photo reminds me of what I am so grateful for now, at this moment. My Mother struggled with depression and anxiety that ultimately debilitated her, which led me to full guardianship for the last eight years. I see her now, with my dog in this photo and my heart feels thankful. I have so much Gratitude that she smiles now. She has happiness and peace. It is an amazing thing.
When I find my mind wandering to places I have been that are sad or hard I change those thoughts and think of something I am grateful for. It works. I know we need to cry and deal with trials, but to dwell for long periods of time can brings us down. Besides capturing our thoughts and focusing on something we are thankful for a journal is another way that can help. Keeping a gratitude journal by your bed and writing them down in a book. Just a reminder of what we are thankful for to free our minds from focusing on the trials so much.
Consider the research:
Did you know that expressing gratitude is associated with many mental and physical health benefits? Studies show that feeling thankful, or having gratitude can improve your mood, sleep, and immune system. Research has also found a decrease in anxiety, depression, chronic pain and disease. Positive psychology research shows that having gratitude is associated with greater happiness as well as helping us deal with adversity and building strong relationships.
We all struggle. We have to get through these trials in order to get stronger. Gratitude can help. Consider this quote it makes so much sense and it works!
“The heart that gives thanks is a happy one, for we cannot feel thankful and unhappy at the same time.”
–Douglas Wood
Holidays can be so wonderful but can also be tough for many. I hope this Thanksgiving season we all have the ability to focus on those things we are grateful for.
Elissa XOXO
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