Did you know that cultivating gratitude can significantly improve your well-being, and strengthen your relationships with others?
Read on to find out why gratitude is important – and how to bring more of it into your life.
Why gratitude matters
To put it simply – practicing gratitude makes us happier, and healthier.
Studies have shown that gratitude has a wealth of positive effects on our wellbeing, such as:
- Reducing anxiety
- Increasing fulfillment
- Lowering blood pressure
- Giving us an energy boost
- Improving our feelings of self-esteem
- Reducing negativity
However, because our brains are negatively biased, it may require some effort before it becomes a habit.
Here’s how you can bring more of it into your life!
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Send a ‘Thank you’ note
Imagine receiving a heartfelt, handwritten note from someone telling you how grateful they are for your help! It’s a sure way to make someone smile – and spread the feeling of gratitude.
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Keep a gratitude journal
Keep a journal on your bedside table and write down three things you are grateful at the end of each day. Doing this will mean you’re ending it on a positive note – even if you had to deal with challenges in the day.
If you’re looking for a little guidance in your daily journaling practice, check out Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal.
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Perform a random act of gratitude
Now and then, remind yourself of the things you are grateful for – whether it’s your friends, family, good health – or anything else you truly feel lucky to have. Practicing this is a wonderful way to give yourself a mood boost when you’re feeling down.
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Meditate
We live in a hectic, crazy world – and it can be overwhelming. Dedicating a few minutes to gratitude meditation is a great way to feel calmer and more positive.
Need a little meditation inspiration and guidance? This list of the best meditation apps of 2018 is a great place to start.
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Tell someone you appreciate them
There are probably many wonderful people in your life – but how often do you tell them you appreciate them? Make them feel valued by telling them how lucky you are to have them.
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Practice self-gratitude
Practicing love, kindness, and gratitude towards yourself is essential. Do something nice for yourself -like taking a relaxing, candle-lit bath or giving yourself an extra day off.
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Make a gratitude wall
It can be as simple as a few sticky notes to remind you of the things you appreciate in your life. Guaranteed to make you smile whenever you look up!
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Create a gratitude ritual
Rituals are a great way to incorporate gratitude into your everyday. Try and make a habit out of talking about what you’re grateful for at the dinner table.
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Give
Giving encourages feelings of gratitude in other people, so why not surprise someone with a small gift – or donate to charity?
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Keep a gratitude jar
Write down a few thank you notes each week and stick them in a jar. Read them when you need a little pick-me-up!
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Help someone
A helping gesture is a wonderful way to spread kindness and gratitude. Call a friend who you know has been having troubles – or offer to give someone a lift.
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Notice the small things
What if you made an effort to notice, and feel grateful for, the small things? Like, getting a space in the parking lot, or a cute heart on your soy latte?
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Express gratitude on social media
Social media often gets a bad rap, but you can also use it to up your appreciation. Sharing inspiring status updates, photos of things you’re grateful for, or gratitude-related quotes/videos can help turn it into a safe internet space – and inspire others to do the same.
And now – not sure what to cook this Thanksgiving? Here’s the most irresistible vegan Thanksgiving menu ever!
