by Ruth A. McKinney, DC
It’s a good time of year to consider the things you are grateful for. Being grateful not only makes you feel better mentally and emotionally, it’s actually good for your health. Research shows that practicing gratitude can boost immune resistance, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep.
Patients with greater levels of appreciation and a positive attitude have been demonstrated to have better heart rates and lower blood pressure. Studies show keeping a “gratitude journal” reduce dietary fat consumption by as much as 25 percent. Grateful people also have lower biomarkers for inflammation, a factor that makes heart failure progress more rapidly.
Studies have shown that gratitude can boost your immune system. Grateful people have a lower level of the stress hormone cortisol by over 20 percent. Researchers observed students who described themselves as hopeful and found them to have more disease fighting immune cells in their bodies.
Higher levels of gratefulness were found to be related to 25% quality better sleep and 8% more sleep time, less fatigue, better mood, and more self-confidence. Having a practice of daily gratitude could also reduce the effects of aging on the brain. Studies show that in stressful situations people who have a grateful disposition recover more quickly both physically and mentally.
Making health a priority and realizing the value of good health comes more naturally to those who are grateful. You’ll be more likely to exercise regularly, eat in a healthier way, and practice better preventative healthcare. With a healthier body you will experience clearer thinking, feel more happy and optimistic, and have a brighter outlook on life.
Gratitude can have a positive impact on your physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Take time to be grateful today and every day.
To learn how Chiropractic helps keep you healthy call our office at 423-485-8480.
When it comes to your health, we’ve got your back!