The Science and Power of Gratitude

Gratitude: Robert Emmons, PhD, says that gratitude requires reflection and contemplation. He reminds us that the etymology of “thinking” and “thanking” are the same. In order to feel grateful we: Recognize Acknowledge Appreciate. Interestingly, he also found that in contrast to people who wrote down five things they felt hassled by, the people who wrote down blessings they were thankful for slept better, had more energy, suffered less illness, exercised more, were more optimistic about their future, and felt better about their lives.

Gratitude
Robert Emmons, PhD, in Thanks: How the Power of Gratitude Can Make You Happier, says that gratitude requires reflection and contemplation. He reminds us that the etymology of “thinking” and “thanking” are the same. In order to feel grateful we
• Recognize
• Acknowledge
• Appreciate
Interestingly, he also found that in contrast to people who wrote down five things they felt hassled by, the people who wrote down blessings they were thankful for slept better, had more energy, suffered less illness, exercised more, were more optimistic about their future, and felt better about their lives.