It’s a familiar memory for a lot of Americans: sitting around the table for Thanksgiving dinner, each person taking a moment to mention the things they’re grateful for. Unfortunately, being grateful seems to be something we’re reminded of only once a year on the holiday.

When it comes to practicing gratitude, many of us fall short. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, with the difficulties that life throws to us on a regular basis. We start to focus on our troubles, then wonder why we’re often so tired or unhappy.

Practicing mindful appreciation and being thankful all year will benefit your physical health, emotional health, and relationships. If you have faith, you can use it to increase your thankfulness in the following ways.

Improved Physical Health
Gratitude improves your physical health in several ways. According to a 2013 study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences, thankful people have less aches and pains and are more likely to prioritize their health. Improved self-care will boost your willpower, attitude, and sleep quality.

Improved Mental Health
Regularly practicing thankfulness can help you learn to value yourself more. By being appreciative for your blessings, you will be less envious of your friends' exceptional travels and occasions on social media. Avoiding negative ideas will help to boost your self-esteem and keep your mood positive. Gratitude can also help alleviate depression by reminding you of reasons to be cheerful and appreciating the positive aspects of your life.

Improved Relationships
Saying please and thank you demonstrates good manners, but it also conveys a cheerful attitude, which might attract new individuals into your life. Showing appreciation can not only lead to new friendships, but will also assist to strengthen current ones. You will form loving, long-lasting ties as you practice appreciation on a regular basis, noticing and communicating the wonderful aspects of the people in your life. 

It might be difficult to find and maintain reasons to be grateful. Life can frequently put us to the test in ways we are not prepared for. However, relying on your faith during difficult times might provide you with the motivation you need to practice appreciation on a regular basis. The benefits of mindful appreciation are numerous, and it is well worth the time and effort to make it a priority in your life. 

If you’re looking for guidance and direction on how to practice mindful gratitude, give our office a call today. One of our specially trained staff will be more than happy to help.