Ingalls Expert Says Being Thankful is Good for You

The Pilgrims were definitely onto something when they set aside a day (three days, to be exact) just to give thanks.

As it turns out, being thankful is good for you mentally and physically. The key is to practice an “attitude of gratitude” every day – not just on Thanksgiving Day.

“Research has shown that gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness,” explains Felicia Houston, M.A., L.C.P.C., licensed clinical professional counselor at Ingalls Behavioral Health Services.

Why? Being grateful helps people feel more positive emotions, appreciate good things when they happen, cope with hardship, and cultivate stronger relationships.

Feelings of gratitude can apply to past events, e.g., happy memories from childhood, the present or being optimistic about the future. It all counts!

“Gratitude helps people focus on what they have instead of what they don’t,” she adds. “And by consciously being thankful, the positive feelings associated with it grow stronger.”

What’s more, researchers at the University of California, Davis found that practicing gratitude can lower blood pressure, improve immune function and make for a better night’s sleep. And a recent study from the University of California San Diego’s School of Medicine found that people who were more grateful and optimistic experienced better heart health, including less inflammation and healthier heart rhythms.

Consciously Practicing Gratitude

“Being grateful takes conscious thought and practice,” Felicia explains.

So how can you incorporate thankfulness into the everyday?

Write a thank-you note. Make yourself happier and strengthen your relationship with another person by writing a thank-you note or sending a card telling them how much you appreciate them.

Think thankful thoughts. If you don’t have time to write a note, think about someone who has done something nice for you, and mentally thank the individual. Thoughts have power!

Keep a journal to count your blessings. Make a habit of writing down what you’re grateful for each day; be specific (e.g., a warm, sunny day in November, a favorite song on the radio) and make note of how you felt at the time.

Meditate. Mindful meditation involves focusing on the present moment. Researchers at Johns Hopkins have found that meditation reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and pain.

“When you practice gratitude regularly, not only will you feel better, you’ll have a brighter outlook and reap the rewards of improved health,” she concludes.