The Power of Gratitude. Few people truly understand the importance of gratitude. In contrast, ingratitude is constantly present, and gratitude is often replaced by a sense of entitlement or achievement for having seized an opportunity presented in our lives.
The reality is that not feeling gratitude affects the person who doesn’t feel it. Scientific studies conducted at the University of California in Davis indicate that even faking gratitude increases the production of serotonin and dopamine, substances associated with pleasure and satisfaction. Similarly, Dr. Robert Emmons, author of the book The Psychology of Gratitude (Oxford University Press), along with Dr. Michael McCullough from the University of Miami, states that “Gratitude, when it comes from the heart, not only keeps social relationships intact but can also physically heal the body,” as explained in his book where he examines this emotion.
Gratitude is Part of All Cultures
Gratitude is a part of all world cultures and philosophies, including Christian, Jewish, Hindu, and Islamic traditions. They all promote gratitude as part of charity, love, and goodwill.
Professors Dan McAdams from Northwestern University and Jack Bauer from Northern Arizona University conducted a study on Judeo-Christian philosophy. They note that sacred texts show that the world’s significant problems originate from a lack of gratitude. Similarly, in Hindu culture, gratitude is institutionalized as part of social norms.
Patanjali’s philosophical treatise, the Yoga Sutras, clearly states that those who accept favors without returning them are criminals. Few know that gratitude benefits the one who feels it more than the one who receives it. Curiously, few people in the West practice gratitude and reciprocation for the good received.
When and to Whom Should We Express Gratitude?
We should thank everyone. Here are some ideas:
- To those who provide us with a service.
- To those who are always by our side.
- To those who give us the right of way on the street.
- To those who smile at us and show interest in us, in the smallest and the most significant things.
Similarly, we should thank God or Life daily for good health, for living, and for having everything we have day by day. Yoga practitioners thank Nature, the trees and their fruits, the animals, and even their organs like the heart, lungs, kidneys, muscles, tissues, and fluids for maintaining life in the body.
For those who wish to experience gratitude fully, it is recommended that they make a written list of things to be thankful for each day and expand it daily.
The Path of Gratitude
To start on the path of gratitude, I invite you to select a person weekly and ask yourself three questions about them: What have I received from them? What have I given to them? What problems have I caused them? Dr. Emmons affirms that we owe more to others than we think.
Another recommended practice is to think of someone who has left a deep mark on your life and whom you have never thanked and write them a letter of gratitude. If possible, read it to them in person. When everything seems lost, things are wrong, and we are on the brink of collapse, thinking of something to be thankful for can save us from absolute despair. Because if there is no gratitude, only self-pity and complaint remain, which can even lead to suicide in our modern society. Let’s thank everyone.
Conclusion
Gratitude is a powerful tool that strengthens our relationships, improves our emotional well-being, and positively affects our physical health.
Although it is often overlooked or underestimated in our daily lives, it is essential to consciously and regularly practice gratitude.
Expressing gratitude enriches our lives and creates a more positive and compassionate environment. So, let’s take a moment to reflect on the blessings in our lives, both big and small, and remember to give thanks every day. In the end, gratitude is not just a virtue but a path to a fuller and more meaningful life.
