An Attitude of Gratitude
Thanksgiving week heightens our awareness as to just how much we have to be grateful for. Even in the darkest of times, as with mourning the loss of a loved one, we are reminded of how blessed we were to have loved so much as to mourn their departure from our lives.
Before sharing with you the wonderful “health roll ups” which are contained within “an attitude of gratitude,” I’d like to take this opportunity to let you know how truly grateful I am for you, my faithful reader (and friend). Having been given this “charge” of sharing Monday Morning Health Tips—for over 12 years now—and knowing thousands of you open my newsletter each week looking to Get Healthy for Heaven’s Sake is such a cherished gift! I also really appreciate the emails of appreciation and encouragement some of you send along throughout the year. It helps me to know the Lord is still using this offering of mine.
There are so many interesting studies which have looked at the physical and mental benefits of living a life framed by gratitude—for who you are, for how you are loved, and for the things and opportunities you’ve been given. Here’s a list of some of the personal plusses to reflecting on, and expressing, the positive side of life straight from Harvard Medical School’s newsletter:
Gratitude’s Health Roll Ups
- Feel more positive emotions throughout the day
- Relish good experiences
- Improved health condition, both mental and physical
- Deal with the adversities of life better
- Build strong relationships
So, how might you make gratitude an attitude?
Gratitude Action Steps
- Before rising from bed, think about or verbalize one thing you’re thankful for, like the 2 gifts you just opened—your eyes!
- Use a journal to build a list of things you are grateful for. Add to it daily/weekly.
- Remember to express “Thank you” to those who have helped you in some way. Be specific as you express your gratitude.
- If you’re a person of faith, reflect on the benefits of being a follower.
- GIVE! It reminds you that you’re blessed to be in the role of benefactor.
Finally, a suggestion for your reflection this Thanksgiving:Readand reflect on Psalm 103.
