As we inch closer to the holiday season, it’s normal to develop high expectations for a memorable and festive time of year. However, for many of us, the holidays are far from this. People often feel stressed and overwhelmed during this time, and others are reminded of the loss they’ve suffered. 

Fortunately, there is a way to lift your spirits, and it requires nothing more on your part than being grateful. 

Research shows that gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Practicing gratitude helps people feel positive emotions, improve their health, build stronger relationships and face adversity. 

As we enter the month of November, let’s discuss the benefits of gratitude and how to be a more thankful person. 

What are the Emotional and Physical Benefits of Gratitude? 

With over 15 years of research, we know that gratitude is important to our psychological health. Gratitude is shown to make people happier, boost their relationships and possibly even combat depression and anxiety. 

Gratitude may even improve our physical health, as some studies have associated gratitude with fewer aches and pains, improved sleep and better cardiovascular health. 

Why gratitude has such an impact on our health is still misunderstood, but there are a few theories about why this might be the case. First, when people practice gratitude, they tend to feel good and sleep better, improving their overall health and wellness. 

Second, gratitude may fight stress and increase positive emotions. Optimistic thinking can even change brain cells – the brain thrives on positivity! Lastly, gratitude can open the door to more relationships, which can also have tangible health benefits. 

How to Be a More Thankful Person 

Most of us can use a little help when it comes to thinking more positively. As one of the best life coaches and psychics in Los Angeles, Jack Rourke finds these strategies to be helpful: 

• Keep a gratitude journal. Whether online or in a notebook, set aside time every day to write down at least three things you are thankful for. 
• Thank the people around you. Make an effort to thank those around you. This will help you be more conscious about practicing gratitude. 
• Embrace setbacks. To appreciate the good things in life, we often have to remember the bad things. Think about how you’ve overcome challenges in your life and grown as a person.
• Improve happiness. Work with a life coach to improve happiness in other areas of your life. Being happy can make you grateful, and being grateful can make you happy! 
• Be aware of your thoughts. Being unhappy about a situation isn’t about the situation itself – it’s about your thoughts of the event. Make an effort to understand your thoughts and feelings. 

One of the best gifts you can give yourself is positive thinking. Schedule a reading with Jack Rourke, a trusted psychic and medium in Los Angeles who can provide you with the insight and clarity you need.