The Science of Gratitude

 

By Louanne and Sharon Saraga Walters

Scientific studies are revealing the ways in which exercising gratitude benefits not only our emotional and mental health, but also our physical health. Here are just a few examples of the latest trials being conducted (all from 2017):

1. In a randomized controlled trial, 46 pregnant women participated in an online mindfulness and gratitude program 4 times per week for 3 weeks. The women had significant reductions in waking and evening salivary cortisol levels which were measured at the start, after 1.5 weeks, and at the end of the program period.

2. 192 men and women participated in a 3 month randomized controlled trial in active journaling of gratitude. Participants improved in overall balance (well-being) and had reductions in depression biomarkers.

3. 359 students, faculty and staff participated in a 4 month gratitude program following an on-campus shooting. Participants showed a decrease in  posttraumatic stress and an increase in posttraumatic growth.

Do you know what your Gratitude Fitness level is?

Whether we're going through a stressful period, or simply experiencing regular, daily stress, our practice of exercising Gratitude an benefit us in multiple physical pathways, while improving several areas of our lives simultaneously.

The Grati-Fit™ system can help you identify and focus on areas in your life which might need a Gratitude shift, while revealing additional exercises to enhance your current Gratitude practice. 

Download and take this short quiz to find out what areas need your Gratitude attention today!