This month at Grüvi, we’ve been taking some time to slow down and focus on the people and things we’re most grateful for — our families, our communities, and the little moments of joy that make life so beautiful.
While this practice has us feeling GrĂĽvi in more ways than one, there are also some serious benefits to saying thanks (and science to prove it!)
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According to psychologists, gratitude is a positive emotional response that happens when giving or receiving a benefit from someone — AKA the human way of acknowledging the good things in life.
When we focus on what we’re grateful for, we help our brain produce feel-good chemicals like serotonin and endorphins. These chemicals help us stay focused, sleep well, and be generally nice people — making it easier to build friendships and connect with others.
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People who regularly express gratitude for the positive things in their life are shown to be happier overall, leading to lower rates of stress and depression.
Studies have shown that gratitude reduces social comparisons. Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs—a major factor in reduced self-esteem—grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
Studies show that those who express gratitude regularly appear to have a more positive outlook on life. Gratitude also reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, from envy and resentment to frustration and regret.
Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.
People have reported feeling more loved and more connected to others in their lives when they routinely practice gratitude or those around them practice gratitude. One study found that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship.
So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or send a thank-you note to that colleague who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.
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For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a major role in overcoming trauma. A 2006 study published in Behavior Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of post-traumatic stress disorder. Recognizing all that you have to be thankful for —even during the worst times—fosters resilience.
Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.
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A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that gratitude increased athletes’ self-esteem, an essential component to optimal performance. Other studies have shown that gratitude reduces social comparisons.
Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs—a major factor in reduced self-esteem—grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
Much of our time and energy is spent pursuing things we currently don’t have. Gratitude reverses our priorities to help us appreciate the people and things we do.
No matter what you’re going through this holiday season, taking some time to practice gratitude will have lasting effects on both your physical and mental health. Keep an eye out for upcoming posts that will touch on ways to count your blessings and stay grateful, all year long.
