Wellness Corner 31: Gratitude

Hey Falcons,

Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. It’s the last Wellness Corner for this semester, so I thought I’d discuss something not related to exams (yep, those are coming up!).

This season of gratitude, let’s discuss why giving thanks is important.  Whether you apply it to the past (being thankful for elements of childhood or things in the past), the present (not taking good fortune for granted), and the future (being optimistic), gratitude is great for your health!  According to a Harvard Medical School study, gratitude "helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.”

Ways to cultivate gratitude on a regular basis include:

• Writing a thank-you note to a friend, family member, or even someone you don’t know too well, like a member of the Kinkaid facilities staff. Send it, or better yet, deliver and read it in person.

• Keep a gratitude journal. Make it a habit to write down or share with a loved one thoughts about the gifts you've received each day.

• Count your blessings. Each week, make a list of what went right each day or some things you are grateful for.

• Meditate, focusing on what you're grateful for.

Let’s try incorporating gratitude into our regular routine. And let’s power through this final week before midterms.

Stay well,

Eshaan