How Gratitude Can Benefit Your Physical Health All Year Long

Now that we're officially in the holiday season, generosity and gratitude reign supreme. We're altruistic because we're motivated at this time of year to support others who are less fortunate, and we express thanks for those who have extended similar kindness to us. And honestly, why wouldn't we want to tap into this sort of holiday spirit? Both generosity and gratitude have an incredible influence on our emotional health. When we practice them, we're happier, more optimistic and have a lower risk for depression and anxiety. New research also shows that gift giving reflects how we feel about others and could give more insight into how we maintain relationships. Yet, somehow, we really only concentrate on the benefits when the year winds down. Bah-humbug. If you need more reason that these two superpowers should go beyond the last holiday cookie, here's a big one: They're also huge assets to our physical health, says Stephen G. Post, Ph.D., author of Why Good Things Happen To Good People. "Many people can feel a physical effect when they volunteer," he tells The Huffington Post. "It's kind of like if you stop eating ... donuts for a couple of days and start eating vegetables, you'll start feeling more energetic and less lethargic. These acts sort of have the same effect. You get that feeling of energy and robustness." Below are seven ways a generous spirit and a grateful attitude can improve your physical well-being -- something that should be a priority all year 'round. ...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news