Expressing gratitude really does make you happier according to new research. In fact, the more positive you are, the more your mind and body will reap the rewards.
Sure, we've all heard the trendy news that writing in a gratitude journal may boost your spirits, but why?
According to the study, expressing gratitude is consistently linked to a number of positive psychological, social and health effects like feeling optimistic about life, exercising more, and experiencing fewer physical symptoms of discomfort. What's more, gratitude is also tied to a greater likelihood of helping others.
It's true - gratitude often leads to kindness. If you receive a gift from someone, or a person extends a helping hand, you're more likely to pay it forward by extending kindness to others.
Numerous studies show that this "pay it forward" effect can increase your life satisfaction, hope and vitality, and also be a powerful antidote to depression, anxiety, stress, envy and burnout. Further, people who express gratitude consistently report fewer symptoms of physical illness, and are more likely to exercise and get a good night's sleep.
An attitude of gratitude is also good for your relationships. Saying thanks to others on a regular basis can have long-term benefits for maintaining feelings of connection and affection.
The take home message is - gratitude is good for you, and good for others too. So why not give it a try?