December 17, 2024Tips + Tricks

The Power of Gratitude - What Science Has to Say

A few months ago, my aunt sent me an article about the scientific link between practicing gratitude and increased health, specifically the practice of writing thank you notes. I was not surprised by the findings but honestly a bit surprised to find that scientists were studying something I think about so often.
 
I grew up writing thank you cards. Every Christmas, my grandma would give us each a beautiful box of stationery. I would practice writing my thank you notes for Christmas gifts on lined notebook paper and then carefully transfer them in my best cursive to the crisp, new stationery she'd sent. As the study found, that process made me feel good. In fact, practicing gratitude left such an impression on me that I started a business built around the act of connecting people and writing letters.
 
I know writing thank you notes can be intimidating and it's especially difficult to find the time during the busy holiday season. So, I thought it's the perfect time to share this study's findings and some tips on writing thank you notes.

Mental Health

It's no surprise that writing thank you cards can strengthen the relationship between the giver and the receiver. However, studies have also found an association between practicing gratitude and increased mental health. With this in mind, consider sharing in your cards what their friendship or relationship means to you year-round.

Physical Health

A Harvard study has found a link between longevity and practicing gratitude. Study participants who agreed with statements such as "I have so much in life to be grateful for" had increased health benefits such as lower levels of inflammation and increased heart health. In your thank you notes, you could also make plans: maybe you could walk together in the new year or find a time to take a yoga class together.

Practicing Gratitude

Through my research for this newsletter I found this article which has some great tips for taking care of yourself this season and in the year ahead. I know I'll be taking time to recharge and relax and I hope you will, too.

However you celebrate and no matter what this season looks like fo you, take time and take care of yourself. Perhaps consider a thank you note to YOU for all you've achieved this year.

 

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