Research reveals gratitude can have these seven benefits:
1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships.
Everyone enjoys being acknowledged and appreciated. Sometimes even the simplest act of gratitude can change someone’s entire day. When you take the time to recognize and value the people around you and appreciate those who make a difference in your lives you will foster better connections to them.
2.Gratitude improves physical health.
Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and they report feeling healthier than other people. They are also more likely to take care of their health. And they exercise more often an are more likely to attend regular check-ups with their doctors, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.
3. Gratitude improves psychological health.
Being grateful reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. It effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.
4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression.
People who rank higher in gratitude are less likely to retaliate against others even when given negative feedback. They experience more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and decreased desire to seek revenge.
5. Grateful people sleep better.
According to a study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being if you just spend just 15 minutes jotting down grateful sentiments before bed you improve your chances of sleeping better and longer.
6. Gratitude improves self-esteem and reduces social comparison.
Rather than being resentful of people who have more money, better bodies or better jobs (which is a major factor in reduced self-esteem) grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
7. Gratitude increases mental strength.
Gratitude reduces stress and can also pay a major role in overcome trauma. Recognizing all you have to be thankful for even during the worst times of your life foster’s resilience.
