Hajja Salesjana

not only a feeling, but also a personality trait. Needless to say, persons who embody gratitude are more likely to experience fulfilment in their lives, than others who choose to look at that which they still lack. WHY GRATITUDE MATTERS Research has found that, over time, feeling grateful boosts happiness and fosters both physical and psychological health, even among those struggling with mental health problems. Studies show that practicing gratitude curbs the use of words expressing negative emotions and shifts attention away from such emotions as resentment and envy. This minimises the possibility of rumination, which is a hallmark of depression. It stands to reason that grateful people are less likely to have mental health issues like depression. Indeed, research has found that intentionally practising gratitude is linked with a reduction in negative affect and an increase in mental resilience. People who are grateful also feel less pain, less stress, suffer insomnia less, have stronger immune systems, experience healthier relationships, and do better academically and professionally. Overall, gratitude can boost both our mental and our physical health. HOW DO WE DEVELOP GRATITUDE? Gratitude, derived from the Latin word ‘gratia,’ means gratefulness or thankfulness. In its simplest form, gratitude refers to a ‘state of thankfulness’ or a ‘state of being grateful’. Gratitude, therefore, starts with noticing the goodness in life. It is true that a materialistic culture that encourages constant wanting and sees possessions as the source of happiness is Photo by Svyatoslav Romanov on Unsplash 24 Ottubru - Diċembru 2022 hajja