When we think of gratitude, we think of the action of saying “thank you” to someone for something they’ve done for us that made our life better. There are several instances for expressing gratitude but that one example speaks volumes if you read it again to understand.
Gratitude is more than just a polite “thank you.” It’s a powerful, transformative practice that can profoundly impact your mental, emotional, and even physical health. While modern medicine addresses specific ailments, gratitude helps nurture the whole person— mind, body, and soul.
When you say “thank you” to someone for doing something for you or giving you something, whether you expected it or not, the person feels good, and you feel good for making them feel good. In order words, gratitude has a repule effect. What goes around comes around.
Gratitude is the act of recognizing and appreciating the good in your life, no matter how small or simple. It shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a positive outlook that can improve overall well-being.
Have you ever considered expressing gratitude to yourself for your health? For the actions you take daily that keep you healthy and sane? Have you ever said outwardly to yourself;
“(Your name), thank you for showing up for your health and well-being yesterday (or today- depending on when you are saying it). Thank you for drinking water first thing in the morning, for exercising, for the nutritious breakfast, the balanced lunch, the mindfulness exercise, the breathing exercise, etc. I felt so good afterwards and those activities made the day super easy, I was able to focus on my goals better and work towards my vision. Thank you for staying strong and committed to being healthy. You truly deserve it!”
Try this easy activity while standing in front of a mirror.
You don’t have to use my exact words verbatim, you speak according to the reality of what you did for your health.
This is a new year and one of the ways to accomplish all you’ve set out to, is to diligently pursue all that will get you there, and that includes expressing gratitude to God, yourself, the things and people that matter to you, and everyone who deserves it.
Gratitude is a cherished gift worldwide and one that in this new year, I encourage you to give yourself as much as you give others. Saying “thank you” to yourself often enough will:
- Build your self esteem
- Improve your confidence
- Encourage you repeat the process
- Help you stay grounded in what truly matters
- Elevate your emotions by activating your happy hormones
- Boost your immunity
- Improve your sleep
- Support your heart health
- Lower your blood pressure
- Encourage other healthy behaviors
Practical Ways to Cultivate Gratitude
Incorporating gratitude into your daily life doesn’t have to be complicated:
- Start a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you’re thankful for each day.
- Practice Mindful Appreciation: Take a moment to acknowledge the beauty in your surroundings, like a sunrise or a warm cup of tea.
- Express Gratitude to Yourself and Others: Let someone know you appreciate them with a note, text, or verbal acknowledgment. Remember the gratitude acknowledgement shared earlier, practice saying that to yourself often.
Conclusion
By cultivating a thankful heart, you can lower stress, enhance physical health, and deepen your relationships. It’s not just about what happens to you but how you respond with a grateful attitude that transforms your life from the inside out.
This year, commit to loving yourself more by telling yourself the simple words “thank you” daily and watch how your mind, body, and soul will transform in a couple of months. Don’t keep this to yourself, share it with your loved ones.