Gratitude is good for your heart! For real! And not just this week of Thanksgiving.
Why feel gratitude?
There are many benefits related to gratitude. Perhaps that is why there are so many studies about gratitude. One study has found a reduction in inflammatory bio markers as well as an increase in heart rate variability. Heart rate variability is a measure of reduced cardiac risk.
Other benefits to gratitude include a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, better sleep, and more.
Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude. Click To TweetIt turns out that gratitude is part of an outlook on life that focuses on acknowledging the positive aspects of life. Noticing and appreciating nature and beauty. Feeling joy. And more.
Practicing Gratitude
Now that we know the benefits of gratitude, how can we have more of it? Practice, practice, practice. Which is likely the reason that gratitude journals are encouraged.
A gratitude journal doesn’t have to be a formal journal. It’s simply a daily practice of acknowledging and recording the what you’re grateful for. It may be related to ordinary events, personal gifts or attributes, or the people who’ve touched you today. The key is that it is a practice; something you do every day. For more suggestions on practicing gratitude see this article.
5 Things I’m Grateful for
- I’m thankful for my husband and my family.
- I’m thankful for my health.
- I’m thankful for my cats and the joy they bring us.
- I’m thankful for my computer that enables me to write this blog post.
- I’m thankful for you, my readers.
What are you thankful for?
- Cole Slaw – For Your Picnic or Barbecue - July 15, 2021
- Sautéed Squash Medley – Yellow Squash and Zucchini - July 8, 2021
- Making Ratatouille - July 7, 2021
