Give Thanks

New research is showing that gratitude could improve your health. Follow our seven-day plan to boost your wellbeing – and happiness

- Sarah Sellens

Doing good makes you feel good – it’s not a new concept, but a growing bank of data is showing that expressing thanks for the good that is done to you could improve your health. To put that statement into perspective: a slew of research shows that feeling gracious on a day-to-day basis could make you care better for yourself, sleep well, experience less depression, avoid overeating and become more patient. It could even increase the chance of your happiness lasting. ‘Gratitude can have significant mental and physical benefits,’ says Neil Seligman, mindfulness teacher (neilseligman.com). ‘It can improve your immune function and lower your blood pressure, plus reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and addiction. Grateful people have been shown to experience greater joy, enthusiasm, love and optimism. They have also increased helpfulness, generosity, and cooperation, so it’s a win-win situation.’

Of course, a gratitude practice isn’t new – for centuries, civilizations have been giving thanks through food offerings to spiritual figures or praying when waking up and before falling asleep. In fact, many cultures still practice gratitude at annual festivities and holidays today. Chances are, then, that you’ve already heard of gratitude practice, so why is it suddenly popular among the masses?