Blueprint for Happiness: The Attitude of Gratitude

November tends to inspire thoughts of gratitude and giving thanks. With Thanksgiving around the corner, you may have even started creating a list of all the things you are thankful for in your life.

This is something you should practice year-round, not just around the holidays!

Studies suggest that this simple practice is an effective way to achieve short-term and long-term happiness:

• One study found that exercises like writing down what you are grateful for every day leads to immediate and long-term increases in happiness, as well as decreases in depressive symptoms.
• Another study found that keeping a gratitude journal decreased materialism and bolstered generosity among youth.
• A six-week week study examined three different groups. One was told to maintain their routine, the second group was directed to focus on self-care, and the third group was asked to do a gratitude exercise for 10-15 minutes every day. The gratitude group reported greater well-being than the rest after six weeks and were still feeling the positive effects of the exercises six months later.

In addition to better mental health, practicing gratitude can improve your physical health. Being thankful can lower your stress and blood pressure levels – leading to improved heart health.

Carve out ten minutes a day to journal and list the things you are thankful for. It can be moments, people, experiences, family, health – anything you can think of no matter how big or small. It’ll be good for your heart, your health, and your happiness. Put pen to paper with an attitude of gratitude!

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, we want to provide a Blueprint for Happiness, because happiness is part of your health. Happiness leads to healthier behaviors like being active and eating nutritious food. Check out our social media channels and blog on the first Friday of every month for tips on sparking more joy and happiness in your life! 😊