Many people know that exercise, healthy eating and enough sleep are important for living a longer and healthier life. New research shows that gratitude can also play a positive role in healthy ageing. Gratitude is more than just saying ‘thank you’; it means consciously pausing to appreciate the good things in your life, both small and large.
Scientists have discovered that people who regularly practise gratitude are less likely to die prematurely. Research among thousands of older women showed that those who felt grateful more often died less frequently over the years from various causes, such as heart disease. This is partly because gratitude helps the body to reduce stress, which in turn is good for the heart and general health.
Furthermore, gratitude also appears to have an influence on a better night's sleep. People who are grateful fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply. Because sleep ensures the recovery and rejuvenation of the body, this contributes to healthier ageing. Social bonds are also strengthened by gratitude; it makes us friendlier and increases the connection with others.
The remarkable thing is that gratitude doesn't just give a good feeling, but also has real physical effects. It lowers stress hormones and stimulates the body's recovery. This makes gratitude a simple and effective way to support health, without costing money or requiring effort.
Gratitude can contribute so much to a better quality of life and potentially a longer lifespan, something we all benefit from as we get older.
Source: Buck Institute
