Did you know that on September 21st, people all around the world come together to celebrate World Gratitude Day? It’s a day dedicated to recognising the importance of gratitude in our lives and its profound impact on our mental well-being. As we dive into this special day, let’s explore some intriguing facts about gratitude and its connection to our mental health.
A Simple “Thank You” Can Go a Long Way
Did you know that expressing gratitude can boost our mental health? According to a study published in the Psychological Science journal, even a small act of thanking someone can have a lasting positive effect on our overall mood and well-being. It’s like a little mental boost button we all have at our disposal.
Gratitude Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety often plague our daily lives, but practising gratitude can act as a natural stress reliever. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that individuals who regularly practiced gratitude experienced reduced levels of stress and anxiety. It’s like a soothing balm for the soul.
Gratitude Improves Sleep
Quality sleep is essential for good mental health, and gratitude can play a role here too. A study in the “Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being journal” discovered that when people spent just 15 minutes jotting down things they were grateful for, they slept better and longer. A peaceful night’s sleep can work wonders for our mood.
Now that we’ve established the undeniable link between gratitude and mental health, let’s explore how World Gratitude Day can be a fantastic opportunity to foster this connection.
World Gratitude Day and Mental Health: A Perfect Pair
World Gratitude Day encourages us to reflect on the many things we’re thankful for in our lives. It’s a day to focus on the positive aspects, no matter how big or small they may be. This practice aligns perfectly with the principles of mindfulness, which have been shown to enhance mental well-being.
Virtual therapy apps and VR mindfulness tools provide an innovative way to incorporate gratitude practices into our daily routines. Here’s how they can help:
InsideOut VR Minduflness can immerse you in serene environments, making it easier to focus on gratitude. Imagine standing on a virtual beach, listening to the soothing sounds of waves while reflecting on what you’re thankful for. Try the loving kindness meditation to practice gratitude to yourself, others and the world around you.
Daily Gratitude Journal: The InsideOut app allows you to note what you are grateful for each day, and link this to how it improves your mood. This can allow you to gently take a moment and appreciate the beauty around you.
In conclusion, World Gratitude Day serves as a timely reminder that fostering gratitude can significantly benefit our mental health. With the help of InsideOut App and VR mindfulness tools, we can incorporate this practice into our daily lives, making each day a celebration of gratitude. So, let’s take a moment today to say thank you to the world and ourselves for the precious gift of mental well-being. Happy World Gratitude Day!
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Author: Dr Adva Segal
Role: Clinical Lead at InsideOut
Date: September 2023
