BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Experts are discovering novel and surprising ways to help humans live longer in the never-ending quest for longevity. One such insight is the importance of gratitude. A recent study of over 50,000 older women discovered that those who felt more grateful had a considerably lower probability of dying within the next three years. This research shows that gratitude may be more than just a feel-good emotion; it could be the secret to living a longer, healthier life.
Discovering the power of gratitude
Gratitude has long been recognized for its power to improve our mood and overall well-being. On top of those benefits, it now seems like it plays a significant role in extending our lifespan. Joel Wong, a professor of counseling psychology at Indiana University who was not involved in the study, stated, “It’s an exciting study. It supports the idea that gratitude is not only good for your mental health but also for living a longer life.”
The science of gratitude and health
Ying Chen of Harvard University’s Human Flourishing Program led the current study, which used data from the Nurses’ Health Study, a long-term effort that has been studying the health of thousands of American women since 1976. In 2016, participants were asked to score their sense of gratitude. Their responses were then examined to determine whether there was a correlation with longevity.
The results were stunning. Women with the greatest gratitude scores were 29 percent less likely to die in the next three years than those with the lowest values. This correlation remained even after controlling for age, marital status, social and religious activity, and overall health. Even after accounting for particular health concerns such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes, the most thankful women had a 27 percent decreased risk of dying. Even after controlling for lifestyle characteristics such as smoking, drinking, exercise, body mass index, and diet quality, the most grateful women had a 21 percent decreased chance of dying.
While these findings are compelling, it’s worth noting that the study demonstrates correlation rather than causality. However, it opens up fascinating new avenues for future research and practical applications in health and well-being.
Practical ways to develop gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful feeling that may be nourished and deepened. Sonja Lyubomirsky, an experimental social psychologist at UC Riverside, emphasizes, “Gratitude is a skill that you can build.” Here are some simple strategies to foster appreciation in your daily life:
1. Keep a gratitude journal: Every day, write down three things you are grateful for. This simple technique might help you change your attention from what is wrong to what is right in your life.
2. Express your appreciation to others: Write thank-you notes or letters to those who have made a difference in your life. Delivering these words in person can be especially impactful.
3. Reflect on positive experiences: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on wonderful events and things you’re grateful for. This can help to strengthen pleasant feelings and minimize stress.
4. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you be present and grateful in the moment. Incorporating appreciation into your mindfulness practice can increase its effectiveness.
5. Perform acts of kindness: Serving others can increase sentiments of gratitude. Volunteer your time or do tiny acts of kindness to develop a thankful heart.
The outlook for gratitude and longevity
The latest findings add to an expanding body of evidence indicating that thankfulness has several health advantages. People who practice thankfulness regularly have better cardiovascular health, lower levels of inflammation, and decreased cholesterol levels. They are also more likely to practice healthy habits such as frequent exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
Furthermore, gratitude is linked to decreased rates of sadness, increased social support, and a stronger feeling of purpose—all of which are associated with longer life. Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine will not only improve your emotional and physical health, but it may also help you live longer.
Source study: JAMA Psychiatry—Gratitude and mortality among older US female nurses
