As we come to the end of a very different, difficult year, it is important to take time to think about the things we are thankful for in our own lives. While many people are feeling depressed, isolated, or a sense of loss, behavioral scientists have found that expressing gratitude can be good for us. When we express gratitude, we acknowledge what is good in our lives and give thanks to both tangible and intangible gifts bestowed upon us.
One recent study focusing on the benefits of gratitude from psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, found people who expressed gratitude felt more positive emotions and even improved their health. During the 10-week study, one group of participants wrote down everything that had happened during each week that they were grateful for. The other group was told to record everything that had irritated them throughout the week.
At the end of the study, participants were interviewed and researchers found that the group that wrote about gratitude was more optimistic and felt better about their lives. “Surprisingly, they also exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation.” In another study, couples were asked to take the time each day to express their gratitude to their partner. Participants said they felt more positive toward their partner as well as more comfortable discussing things that were upsetting to them about the relationship.
While it is hard to categorically say expressing gratitude will make us feel better about ourselves, most of the studies done on gratitude appear to support the premise. We know that at the MorningStar of Santa Fe senior living community, we all try to be thankful for our many blessings. For compassionate senior living, Santa Fe, NM’s families trust, we are their top choice. We are grateful for our team of dedicated individuals who understand the intrinsic value of serving others, especially seniors. Please contact us!
MorningStar of Santa Fe offers the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true “home” for residents. Please visit our website to learn more about pricing and availability for the most exceptional senior living Santa Fe, NM offers.
Source: health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier#:~:text=Gratitude%20is%20a%20thankful%20appreciation,the%20goodness%20in%20their%20lives.&text=Gratitude%20helps%20people%20feel%20more,adversity%2C%20and%20build%20strong%20relationships.
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