During the Thanksgiving season, counting our blessings and focusing on gratitude for them gets more attention. But what about practicing gratitude all year long? It takes effort to make it a habit, but the health benefits are more than worth it.
Studies show that people who take time to be thankful for big and even little things experience more positive emotions, sleep better, express more compassion and have stronger immune systems. Simply being grateful can improve mental health, strengthen relationships with others and over time enhances your ability to see the good in the world around you.
To begin practicing gratitude, even outside of holiday seasons during which it becomes the focal point, try these six simple steps.
Keep a Gratitude Journal.
One of the best ways to begin your gratitude practice is to keep a journal. Establish a time of day to spend a few moments jotting down things for which you are grateful. People, places, big and small moments, things you enjoy—the possibilities are endless!
Share Your Gratitude with Others.
When you begin to really notice how much you appreciate others in your life, let them know. Whether you want to express overall how much they mean to you or you are thanking them for a specific gesture, they will definitely feel the love, and it will strengthen your relationship
Make Practicing Gratitude a Habit.
Think of this as making a pact with yourself to do something regularly. By doing this, research shows that it increases the likelihood the action will happen. Make a note to yourself and post it where you will see it, and it will act as a reminder for you to express your thanks.
Go Through the (Thankful) Motions.
Practicing gratitude can include simple things, like smiling, saying “thank you” and writing letters. The more you go through these grateful motions, the more you’ll trigger the emotion of gratitude more often. Commit to a day of doing these things and see how you feel!
Volunteer.
Particularly during the holidays, many people give back to others in their community. Not only does it help increase your gratitude for things you may take for granted, but it also is a research-backed way to improve your own well-being.
Appreciate Everything!
Get picky when you start expressing gratitude. It doesn’t just have to be about grand occasions in life. Your gratitude habit can encompass every good thing in life, and nothing is too small! It can be nice weather, a great cup of coffee, a phone call with a friend and so much more.
Need help feeling grateful for a clean home? The professionals at Sweet Home Cleaning Service specialize in that! We are so very thankful to make homes on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, including Fairhope, Point Clear, Montrose, Daphne and Spanish Fort, as well as Foley, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, shine. We’re also available for commercial and rental property cleanings in the same area. To book your appointment, contact us today!
