According to English dictionary the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. Showing gratitude is sometimes a required or expected thing, and at other times a spontaneous “ thank you” to someone who has unknowingly made our day. On most occasions, we show gratitude to bring some of the good feelings we have been gifted back to the gifter.
Gratitude has been shown to:
- Improve your psychological health. Grateful people enjoy higher well-being and happiness, and suffer from reduced symptoms of depression.
- Improve your sleep. Practicing gratitude regularly can help you sleep longer and better.
- Enhance empathy and reduces aggression. Those who show their gratitude are less likely to seek revenge against others and more likely to behave in a pro-social manner, with sensitivity and empathy.
- Enhance your self-esteem. People who are grateful have increased self-esteem, in part due to their ability to appreciate other peoples’ accomplishments
- Improve your physical health. People who show gratitude report fewer aches and pains, a general feeling of health, more regular exercise, and more frequent checkups with their doctor than those who don’t.