Gratitude is more than just a wellness buzzword. Neuroscience experts studied how being thankful can affect your health, and the results were surprising. Gratitude practices can lower blood pressure and improve immune function. Also, people who practice gratitude are also more likely to engage in exercise and healthy eating. So why not give it a try? Here are 3 ways to get started.

1. Start Small. Even if you are going through a tough time, find small things to be grateful for. It could just be waking up in the morning or appreciating your body’s ability to breath. You might even practice writing down what you are grateful for.

2. Look Around. Try appreciating who you are thankful for. It could be a partner, child or co-worker. It could even be someone who you do not regularly interact with but influences your life, such as the person who cleans the park you enjoy your daily walk in. If you feel comfortable, maybe express your appreciation to that person. Everyone likes to feel appreciated!

3. Enjoy. Try to build activities into your day that you enjoy and are thankful for. It could be a short walk outside, time to listen to music or a few minutes reading. Perhaps schedule a coffee date with a friend you have not seen in a while.

Try practicing gratitude and other mindfulness practices at KareBoost Health. We offer daily yoga classes and health coaching services to help you find your healthiest self. Contact us today to learn more!

Karen L. Leibowitz, MD
Health and Medical Coach
KareBoost Health