Cultivating Gratitude – How Thankfulness Can Improve Your Health

Posted by Dr. Della Parker     on January 19, 2017

A pillar of happiness, as described by anyone describes themselves as happy, is the act of gratitude. Showing others that you value and care for them is not just great for them, it’s significantly beneficial to you as well. Studies on the health benefits of gratitude have long revealed identical results—saying thank you can help you live a longer, happier and healthier life; here’s why:

It Can Help Soothe Depression

For those who suffer the debilitating effects of depression, sometimes a phone call to a good friend or family member for no other reason but to express your love and thankfulness can help chase the blues away.

It Can Improve Your Sleep

Of course feeling grateful has a positive effect on your sleep! We’d much rather be lulled into slumber by a lullaby of happy thoughts than toss and turn while the anxieties of the day replay in our heads. Focus on three good things that happened to you before bed each evening and take a moment to be thankful for each. Your sleep will improve as will your mood.

It Can Improve Your Relationships

Many folks might identify their main stressor as their loved ones or family members. When communication fails between lovers, partners, and friends, the effects can ripple outward, affecting far more than just a precarious relationship. By showing gratitude to these people, you can re-ignite passions, restore friendships and strengthen family bonds.

Make you and your family’s health a priority this year. See Dr. Della Parker for a free consultation or call 503-344-6631

IMG SRC: It is not happiness that makes us grateful, it is gratefulness that makes us happy by Jyrki Salmi