Inspired to Be Grateful
Grateful: warmly or deeply appreciative of kindness or benefits received; thankful.
There is so much to be grateful for, especially at this time of year. Spending time with loved ones, sharing fond memories and the joy of continuing traditions is a very special time. To keep the sense of thankfulness going all year long, a gratitude journal can be a powerful tool. Spending a few minutes each day, writing down the things we are grateful for helps us to recognize and appreciate these moments that have great meaning.
It may feel challenging to keep a daily gratitude journal going but with some prompts, it is easy to kick start your journey and gain momentum to continue. Consider using some or all of these to begin your gratitude journal:
- What was the highlight of your day today?
- What are you grateful for this week?
- What are you looking forward to next week?
- What are your three favorite holidays?
- Where is your favorite place to travel?
- What five things are you thankful for today?
- What is your favorite movie? How does thinking about it make you feel?
- What is your favorite holiday? What makes it so special?
- What are your favorite simple pleasures in life?
- What is your favorite smell? Explain what it means to you.
- What meal makes you happy? What memories does it bring up for you?
- What makes you feel calm?
- Who do you trust the most? Why?
- What do you feel hopeful about right now?
- When are you the most comfortable?
- When do you feel most connected to your loved ones?
- What makes you feel needed?
- What is your favorite season? What makes it special to you?
- What is your favorite snack? What does it taste like?
- What is your favorite time of day?
- When do you feel most alive?
- Who inspires you?
A recent study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has linked older adults experiencing gratitude to the possibility of living longer. Until this time, research has provided a link between gratitude and a lower risk of mental distress as well as greater social and emotional wellbeing. The impact of physical health was less understood. But this particular study, from July of 2024, gives the first empirical evidence that longevity in older adults may be elevated, thanks to feeling grateful.
The National Council on Aging echoes this sentiment by sharing that studies have shown that gratitude has a uniquely powerful relationship with well-being and health: our own and for those around us. By experiencing gratitude, we can enjoy benefits that improve our quality of life each day, including:
- Lower stress and anxiety: Expressing gratitude may be instrumental in helping to calm your nervous system when it is in overdrive by lowering your heart rate, blood pressure and slowing your breathing. This is particularly helpful during fight or flight mode.
- Better quality of sleep: By lowering your anxiety and stress levels, you may find it easier to fall and stay asleep. One effective tip is to push away negative thoughts as you try to fall asleep, instead reviewing happy thoughts.
- Help for depression: Focusing on gratitude can foster a more optimistic viewpoint about the future and what is happening in your life. This can lessen symptoms of depression as well as provide a basis for emotional resilience when challenges come your way.
The American Heart Association believes that gratitude is good medicine. Practicing gratitude regularly can improve your wellbeing and health by improving immune function, lowering blood pressure and improving your mood.
At CarePatrol, we practice gratitude every day. We’re thankful to be able to help older adults thrive by giving them the information they need to select the right community to honor their preferences and medical needs. Working with families to provide peace of mind is our passion.