Gratitude can give you great physical and psychological benefits
Thankfulness comes in all different kinds of forms, especially during the holiday season that we find ourselves in.
Whether it's giving gifts, sharing hugs, or having conversations with those close to us, the practice of showing gratitude has both psychological and physical benefits according to experts.
Dr. Anne-Katherin Eiselt is the Behavioral Science Director at Teladoc Health.
She said when you practice gratitude, "There are many benefits both on your physical health and mental health when we look at what brain areas are activated."
Dr. Eiselt added, "When our mood improves we might feel more motivated to do the things we enjoy, and gives us more reason to be grateful. So, it's almost like a reinforcing loop that we have.
She said there are also added physical benefits.
She adds, "What we see in studies is also an effect on your sleep for example. So, if you practice gratitude before bedtime you may counteract those negative ruminating thoughts that sometimes disrupt sleep…and we also see an effect in stress reduction."
Dr. Eiselt says there is plenty of proof through scientific studies that show every year the holiday season comes with many stress factors that can affect someone's well-being.
While that might be true, she says it's also a time with cheer and plenty of opportunities to spread thankfulness.
Dr. Eiselt said, "It's a perfect time to start a routine of being more mindful and thankful but really it is something that should carry out throughout the whole year."
Her advice to those who aren't already practicing thankfulness is now is a great time to start.
She adds, "Maybe during family dinner, you can talk about what you are thankful for or incorporate those little moments of reframing and shifting your mindset throughout the day."
