Through the ages, philosophers and religious teachers have made a connection between gratitude and general wellbeing. Science has now confirmed this.
Studies have found that:
- Gratitude is the best predictor of wellbeing out of any character strength.
- People with heart disease improve their heart health through practising gratitude.
- Teenagers who feel grateful are less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol.
- Grateful people have more self-control, which helps with healthy eating and quitting smoking.
- Gratitude reduces insomnia and depression, increases happiness and improves immunity.
- Counting your blessings improves your self-esteem, because when you feel better about your life, you are less likely to compare yourself negatively with others.
Some people are naturally more grateful than others. But the good news is we can all become more grateful through practice.

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