The power of gratitude
In a world that often emphasizes what we lack, the benefits of gratitude, kindness and compassion offer a refreshing counterpoint. Thankfulness is not just a fleeting emotion or a prescribed focus for a particular American holiday. Thankfulness, or gratitude, is a year-round mindset that can significantly improve our lives, especially in the face of adversity. The benefits of leading a grateful life are manifold, affecting both our mental and physical well-being.
Why is gratitude important?
Appreciating the good things and people you have in your life, the aspects of your life that are going well, or even the simple fact of having avoided worse possible outcomes are all meaningful ways of being thankful. This is important because it can have noticeable positive impacts on everything from how you feel day to day to how you view the world as a whole.
The universal benefits of gratitude
Here are some of the surprising mental, physical, social, and even career health benefits of gratitude:
Mental health gains
Gratitude and kindness have shown to have a positive impact on mental health. Studies show that practicing gratitude and compassion can lead to lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. When we focus on what we have rather than what we lack, it shifts our perspective. This makes us more resilient against stress and emotional setbacks. This can also help people experience more happiness and overall contentment in their lives. In our yoga practice, we talk about "flipping" your perspective from seeing things as a negative to seeing them as a positive.
Physical health gains
Gratitude can also impact your physical health in a positive way. A study from the University of California, Davis, found that people who regularly practice gratitude experience fewer aches and pains. They also generally feel healthier than others. The act of being thankful can additionally improve sleep quality, as focusing on positive thoughts before bed can lead to a more restful night's sleep. Living life through a lens of appreciation can even help people reduce their use of and reliance on alcohol and drugs.
Stronger relationships
Gratitude doesn't just make you feel good. Gratitude also helps those around you. A study from the University of Georgia and the University of Ohio found that gratitude plays a significant role in relationship satisfaction. Although the study at the University of Georgia focuses on marriages, it's easy to see how thankfulness can fortify all relationships, romantic and otherwise. When you express gratitude, it fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding, strengthening the bond between you and the people around you, from acquaintances to friends and family.
Career satisfaction
In the professional arena, career satisfaction is increased when gratitude is a part of the work culture. A study from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania found that employees who show thankfulness to and for their co-workers experience better professional cohesion and performance.
It found three strategies for practicing gratitude that helped to foster these successes:
- Celebrating small accomplishments as well as major ones
- Being an empathetic listener
- Finding thoughtful ways to surprise someone with whom you work
Setting a positive example
Finally, living a thankful life will not only impact your own worldview in deeply beneficial ways, but set a good example for others. People around you will notice your mindful attitude and be inspired by it. Through your own thankfulness, others may well be motivated to try gratitude as an approach to life that makes them happier and healthier.
Show gratitude to the new mom in your life
One of the most powerful ways to put gratitude into practice is to show up for someone going through a big life transition. New moms are often running on empty, navigating a completely new world with very little time for themselves. A thoughtful, practical gift is one of the kindest things you can offer.
The New Mama Deck® is a card deck of 52 prompts designed to help new moms navigate the first year with more confidence and less stress. Whether you give it as a baby shower gift, a new mom gift, or simply as a way to say "I see you," it's kindness in a box.
Shop New Mama Deck® today and show the new mom in your life some well-deserved gratitude. Delegate to the Deck®.
