NOW, MORE THAN EVER, YOU NEED TO DO THIS...

I know from experience when I focus on the things I’m grateful for rather than what is irritating me, my mood changes for the better instantly!! However, perhaps you’re wondering does this simple technique work during these unprecedented times???The answer is a resounding yes! Now more than ever you need to?practice gratitude. It’s been proven scientifically, not only does practicing gratitude have the super-power to instantly change your mood, it also helps to change the way we think over time. A study conducted by the?Journal of Happiness suggests that practicing gratitude through journaling leads to people feeling happier, more connected and living more meaningful lives. How amazing is that?

November celebrates National Gratitude Month and I couldn’t think of a better time than now to put the spotlight on something so simple yet has the power to change our mental and physical health. The Greater Good Science Centre out of the University of California Berkley, credits gratitude for building a strong immune system, better quality sleep, lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety and depression, less aches and pains and increases our ability to forgive.??All from practicing gratitude. What a deal!!

So, before you go to sleep tonight, think about or better yet, write down what your grateful for in a journal that you may want to label “My Happiness” because that’s what practicing gratitude is going to bring you. In the meantime, take this fun little test called “Gratitude Quiz” as your starting point. Find it at:?www.greatergood.berkeley.edu/quizzes

Lana Bullough is a stress and resilience expert who is passionate about teaching stress management techniques to individuals and organizations craving more productivity, creativity and humour in the workplace or at home. Contact Lana at?[email protected] for more information.?www.safestress,ca