Quantum physics now tells us what we Unity Truth Students have known for years: the observer changes the observed. Medical research also shows us that people who regularly practice gratitude by reflecting upon the things they appreciate and are thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems. To top all of that off, they are more successful in their work and make more money.
Gratitude doesn’t need to be reserved only for holidays or other momentous occasions and for when you reach some long-sought goal. Sure, you might express gratitude after receiving a raise or a promotion at work, but you can also be thankful for something as simple as a good hug from a friend and the time to rest and reflect. Research by UC Davis psychologist Robert Emmons, author of Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier, shows that keeping a gratitude journal – that is, regularly writing brief reflections on moments for which we’re thankful – can significantly increase wellbeing and life satisfaction.
With all of this going for it, why wouldn’t you want to develop a ThanksLiving practice? This Sunday, we take time to give thanks for all that we have and all that we are.