10 Science-Backed Benefits of Practicing Gratitude With Kids
By Sandi Schwartz
Only recently have scientists begun to study the benefits of gratitude . Vitamin G , as some like to call it , plays a critical role in happiness . Focusing on the positive boosts body , mind and spirit . It gives us energy , inspires us and transforms us . In a nutshell , it provides life with meaning by thinking of life as a gift . Don ’ t you want to give this gift to your children ?
Top 10 Benefits of Gratitude
Dr . Robert Emmons is the world ’ s leading scientific expert on gratitude . He conducted studies involving gratitude journals and found that when people regularly engage in gratitude , they experience measurable psychological , physical and interpersonal benefits :
E Feel better about their lives overall
E Experience higher levels of positive emotions like optimism , enthusiasm , love and happiness
E Are kinder and more generous to others
E Have fewer physical problems including pain
E Exercise more regularly and eat healthier
E Sleep better
E Visit the doctor more regularly for checkups
E Feel less stressed
E Are able to cope with stress more effectively and recover more quickly from stressful situations
E Live longer – on average , being thankful adds seven years to our lives !
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