The Power of Gratefulness: Research On the Physical Effects of Gratefulness

The opposite of gratefulness is envy, which leads to resentment and despair; comparison keeps it all going and leads us away from the peace gratitude brings.  Ironically, we tend to hold onto our pessimism, thinking it will protect us from disappointment and hurt.  But research indicates that happiness, positivity, and gratitude impact our physical health and lifespan.  It may be over-reaching to insist that gratitude heals everything, but research does seem to indicate that gratitude lessens the impact and severity of depression, chronic illness, and more.  Gratitude improves our experience of our circumstances, even when it doesn't change them.  It improves our relationships and our behavior (including reducing self-medicating behaviors), and it helps us stop comparing ourselves to others.  How would it change your life to open the door to gratitude just a little bit wider?