Amazing Connections Between Gratitude and Health! 😍

Published: Sat, 11/30/24

Updated: Sat, 11/30/24

A health newsletter for adults over 60 who want to live fully, stay engaged in life, and continue doing what they love!

Amazing Connections Between Gratitude and Health!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! This holiday is the perfect opportunity to pause and reflect on the many things we are grateful for. As I take time to consider my blessings, I often feel overwhelmed by the abundance in my life—and I imagine many of you feel the same.

Many of us are familiar with scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances...” But have you ever stopped to consider why we are encouraged to practice gratitude? It’s incredible to see how gratitude impacts more than just our emotional and spiritual well-being. Modern science is uncovering that gratitude has profound effects on our physical health as well. Studies now confirm that gratitude can tangibly and measurably enhance our overall well-being. Let’s dive into some of these remarkable connections between gratitude and health!

Better Heart Health

Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Variability: A study highlighted in Psychosomatic Medicine found that higher levels of gratitude correlated with lower blood pressure and improved heart rate variability, showcasing benefits to cardiovascular health. This aligns with broader evidence on gratitude activating the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress on the heart.

Gratitude and Cardiovascular Health: Research from the Nurses’ Health Study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, found that women with high gratitude levels had a 9% lower risk of all-cause mortality, with cardiovascular disease showing the most significant reduction. Gratitude was also associated with improved heart health even when controlling for other factors like lifestyle and mental health.

Enhanced Cardiovascular Function via Positive Emotions: A study in Applied Psychology showed that positive emotional states, like gratitude, directly benefit cardiovascular health by reducing systemic inflammation and supporting heart health. The research emphasizes gratitude's ability to mitigate stress, a key factor in hypertension.

Better Sleep

According to a 2009 study in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, individuals who practiced gratitude before bed fell asleep faster, slept longer, and reported better sleep quality.

Enhanced Immune Function

A study from Psychological Science suggests that positive emotions, including gratitude, can strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient to illness.

Longevity and Emotional Resilience

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health noted that gratitude fosters emotional resilience, which can positively influence physical health and lifespan. Their study revealed gratitude’s role in reducing mortality risks across various diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses.

Ideas to Help Cultivate Gratitude

Start a Gratitude Journal: Write down three things you’re thankful for each day. Review what you've written on a regular basis.

Express Gratitude to Others: Take time to thank someone who has positively impacted your life. This makes a big impact on both of you!

Incorporate Gratitude into Prayer: Use prayer time as a time to thank God for blessings, big and small.

Practice Ongoing Gratitude: Take moments throughout your day to pause and notice the beauty around you—a sunrise, a kind gesture, or even the simple act of breathing. If you find it challenging to feel grateful, try setting a timer on your phone or watch as a gentle reminder to practice gratitude periodically throughout the day.

Gratitude is more than just a fleeting feeling; it’s a powerful practice that can transform your health and outlook on life. As modern science affirms the timeless wisdom of scripture, we see that cultivating gratitude benefits both body and soul!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Kristen Nielsen

Get BODY, BRAIN, and BALANCE Training in the Comfort of Your Home

Are you interested in improving your strength, balance, and cognitive function, but feel like you need some guidance and accountability? I offer individual and small group training in the comfort and convenience of your home. Contact me today to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION & BALANCE ASSESSMENT!

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This is a healthy and delicious way to use up those turkey leftovers!

Turkey and Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

Leftover turkey (shredded or diced)
Mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, spinach, etc.)
Chicken or turkey broth (enough to create the preferred soup consistency)
Olive oil
Seasonings (garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper)

Directions:

Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
Add broth and bring it to a boil.
Stir in the turkey and spinach or other greens.
Simmer until heated through and season to taste.

Email: Kristen@TogetherWon.com

Phone: 719-243-2877

Website: www.TogetherWon.com

Kristen Nielsen
Functional Aging Specialist

2021 Walnut Creek Court
Colorado Springs Colorado 80921
US

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