That may be an overstatement, but there is research showing that practicing gratitude regularly can make you healthier. “Growing evidence indicates that the expression of gratitude can also improve one’s physical health and functioning. Researchers are finding that behaviors such as gratitude, for example, may be reliably connected to positive changes in an individual’s cardiovascular and immune functioning.”*
So, think about it. When your immune system is stronger, you are less susceptible to the flu and other ailments. As you look at ways to stay healthy this winter, consider starting a regular practice of gratitude. Here are a few ideas for you:
– People in many countries don’t have access to clean running water. Today, every time you turn on a faucet, send a word of thanks.
– Write out a list of all of the people you love. Close your eyes and visualize them in a circle around you. Feel yourself radiating love to each of them.
– Even one dollar can make a difference. Connect with your heart and see where it leads you to give. Give away a dollar a day in any way you see fit. You may just be led to leave it somewhere for someone else to find.
– Go to www.DaysofGratitude.com and download a free e-book with a full month of gratitude exercises. (Co-authored by the Gratitude Girls, Dr. Robin Kirby, Carolyn G. Buttram and Vanessa Lowry)
Spend the month of November in gratitude and THANKSgiving!
Practice gratitude on your own or make it an opportunity for family interaction each day. Another research study showed that daily gratitude exercises with young adults resulted in higher reported levels of the positive states of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness and energy.**
So, boost your immune system and ward off swine flu by practicing gratitude… it could be more effective than grandma’s chicken soup!
*quoted from article by Dr. Charles D. Kerns, PhD
** Highlights from the Research Project on Gratitude and Thankfulness
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