In the spirit of the Thanksgiving week we thought we would talk a little bit more about gratitude and how developing a grateful mindset can improve your health and general well-being throughout the entire year.
On the fourth Thursday of every November we spend the day with family and friends, gathered around our kitchens and tables, sharing a meal and talking about the things that we are grateful for. We make calls and exchange messages with our loved ones expressing our thankfulness for each other. As that Thursday ends each year we instantly switch gears to another fast approaching holiday season where the focus becomes about what we are giving and receiving and more often than not, the lesson of gratitude gets lost in the hustle and bustle of the on coming winter and all of it's stress and festivities. But what does it look like and how does it affect our health when we carry that attitude of gratitude into the remainder of the year and practice that thankfulness everyday?
Gratitude isn’t merely a polite gesture; it’s a transformative practice that profoundly influences our health and well-being. Research has unveiled a multitude of benefits associated with embracing gratitude in our lives, transcending mere positivity into tangible improvements in both our mental and physical health.
One of the most significant impacts of gratitude lies in its ability to alleviate stress. By shifting our focus from what’s lacking to what we appreciate, gratitude reduces the production of stress hormones, fostering a sense of calmness and relaxation. Consequently, individuals who practice gratitude often report improved sleep patterns, reduced anxiety levels, and an overall enhanced mood.
Furthermore, the mental health benefits of gratitude are striking. Regularly acknowledging and appreciating the good in life is linked to increased optimism, resilience, and decreased symptoms of depression. It trains the mind to perceive situations with a more positive outlook, empowering individuals to navigate challenges with greater ease.
Gratitude doesn’t stop at mental well-being; it extends its influence to physical health too. Studies suggest that those who actively practice gratitude tend to adopt healthier lifestyles. They are more inclined to engage in regular exercise, maintain balanced diets, and follow health-promoting habits, which contribute to a better overall state of health.
Moreover, the effects of gratitude ripple through the body, impacting physiological functions. Grateful individuals often exhibit lower blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and improved heart health. These factors collectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and contribute to a healthier, more resilient body.
Incorporating gratitude into our daily routines doesn’t require grand gestures; simple practices like gratitude journaling or expressing appreciation to others can yield remarkable benefits. By consciously cultivating gratitude, we not only enhance our mental resilience but also fortify our physical well-being. It’s a small yet mighty tool that empowers us to lead happier, healthier lives—one grateful moment at a time.
In addition to taking care of our clients here at Mile High Holistics with their body & energy work, acupuncture and skincare needs, we also encourage and coach our clients in ways to improve their lives day in and day out, whether they are at home, work or play. Self-care goes deeper than the appointments you make and what you put into your body. We hope you can join us over the next 12 months to create daily habits that help remind you to be even just a little grateful each and every day. We are so very thankful for our staff, our partners and especially for each and every one of our clients that include us as part of their health and recovery processes. Thank you!
Blog Author: Daphne Hamilton - Partner and Marketing Director at Mile High Holistics. - Daphne has lived in the Denver Mero area for nearly 35 years and has been a business leader in the region for over 25 years. Daphne is also the owner of a busy Real Estate team and sits on the board of a national non-profit that helps women coming out of incarceration find affordable housing and tools to create a sustainable new life. She also is actively involved in a number of business and community organizations. When she’s not busy at our studio or selling homes, you can usually catch Daphne hiking, playing tennis, on the golf course, attending concerts or singing at her favorite karaoke bar.
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