& its benefits
We are in the midst of November, what some may call the season of gratitude. Holidays are fast approaching, specifically Thanksgiving, that are typically a reminder for expressing gratefulness. As there are many benefits of regularly practicing gratitude the holiday season should not be the sole season for thanks.
Benefits of Gratitude
Showing gratitude is strongly related to increased happiness.
Expressing gratitude releases dopamine and serotonin which allows for mood enhancement.
Regularly expressing gratitude strengthens neural pathways to create a lasting positive nature within oneself.
Gratitude has been shown to have influence in pain reduction, stress regulation, sleep improvements and emotion management.
Interpersonal connections also can be improved through the expression of gratitude by building, sustaining and reinforcing positive relationships.
Ways to Practice Gratitude
Journaling is a great avenue to personally reflect and express gratitude. Whether it be to yourself, to others, to the life you live, writing out your gratefulness is an effective and routine way to practice gratitude.
Meditation can also be method to express gratitude. Designating moments to breathe and mentally reflect on what you are grateful for allows for great focus and connection.
Acknowledging others reiterates the impact they had on your life, strengthening a relationship as well as promoting the benefits of gratitude mentioned above.
Showing appreciation is another way to practice gratitude through paying it froward. Offer help to those who have helped you or do something thoughtful for those you are grateful for.
Journal Prompts for Practicing Gratitude
• Who is most present in your life through difficult times?
• What made you smile today?
• What are you most grateful for about yourself?
• Where are you the happiest?
• What about today are you most grateful for?
• What lesson of the past are you appreciative of today?
Daily practices for health improvement
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