Day 3 of Counting Blessings- 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of a Gratitude List!

Here are 7 scientifically proven benefits of a Gratitude List:

1. Gratitude can open the door to more relationships. Not only does saying “thank you” constitute good manners, but showing appreciation can help you win new friends, according to a 2014 study published in Emotion. This study demonstrated that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to pursue an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or send a thank-you note to that colleague who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities for new friendships!
 

2. Gratitude can improve your physical health. People who are grateful experience fewer aches and pains and report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. People who are grateful are also more likely to take care of their health. In particular, they exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups with doctor visits. These behaviors lead to longevity.
 

3. Gratitude can improve psychological health. Gratitude can minimize a multitude of toxic emotions, such as envy, resentment, frustration, and regret. Robert Emmons, who is a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research demonstrates that gratitude increases feelings of happiness and decreases feelings of depression.

4. Having gratitude can enhance empathy and reduce aggression. People who demonstrate gratitude are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even in situations when others behave less kindly, according to a 2012 study by the University of Kentucky. Study participants who ranked higher on gratitude scales were less likely to want to retaliate against others, even when given negative feedback. Reportedly, they experienced more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and had a decreased desire to want to seek revenge.

5. Individuals who are grateful get better sleep. Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Try and spend just 15 minutes writing down a few things that you are thankful for before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.
 

6. Gratitude can improve your self-esteem. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology revealed that gratitude increased athletes’ self-esteem, which us an essential component to optimal performance. Other studies have demonstrated that gratitude reduces social comparisons. Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs, people who practice gratitude are more able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
 

7. Gratitude can help your mental health and emotions. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress but that it can also assist in healing from trauma. A 2006 study published in Behavior Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Further, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that gratitude was a major contributor to individuals being more resilient. 

Reference- Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201504/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-gratitude 

What are you thankful for?

I am thankful for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

 CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure