In 2003 two psychologists from major university's published a research paper on gratitude and its impact on well being. Three studies were made with varying controls and instructions. "The results from all three studies demonstrated that the gratitude-outlook groups exhibited heightened well being. The research went on to express some specific effects that were manifest within the groups who cultivated a thankful outlook on life."
Grateful participants:
- Experienced heightened levels of joy and happiness
- Were optimistic about the future
- Felt better about their lives as a whole
- Exercised more regularly
- Were more likely to help others
- Had more energy, enthusiasm, and focus
- Made greater progress toward achieving important personal goals
- Slept better and awoke feeling refreshed
- Felt stronger during trying times
- Enjoyed closer relationships
- Dealt with stress better
- Got sick less often
"With such positive effects on the mind and body, it isn't surprising that the scriptures are filled with multiple references encouraging the children of God to cultivate an attitude of gratitude."
Several scripture references and quotes were then given in the article.
"To possess a deep sense of gratitude requires work. The power it unlocks in a person's life is tremendous. A whole range of temporal and spiritual blessings are accessed through sincere appreciation. Gratitude invigorates the soul. It overcomes fear, envy and comparison. It fills the heart with joy for the success of others. It frees the heart with joy for the success of others. It frees the heart to love others and be concerned with more than self. The deeper our appreciation, the clearer we see with the eyes of the Savior and the more our life connects with our Heavenly Father.
"President Monson said, "My brothers and sisters, to express gratitude is gracious and honorable, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live with gratitude ever in our hearts is to touch heaven."
Church News--Week of February 2, 2014
At the beginning of this year I started a gratitude journal. I struggled to remember to write in it each night at first but it became a wonderful habit. Thinking about my day and putting on paper one thing I am thankful for has helped keep my thoughts and actions in a more eternal perspective. It's also fun to go back and read past entries and is much more doable than a full on journal for me right now. Anyway, there are my two cents.
ReplyDeleteI came across this post again today. I really need to start a gratitude journal.
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