How Thankful Are You Today?

Being thankful is not something that should be done only one day a year. Yet, this upcoming American holiday seems to have captured the hearts and imagination of many, regardless of how commercialized it has become.

According to a Pew Research study, 78% of Americans feel a strong sense of thankfulness or gratitude on a weekly basis, whereas 6% say they seldom or never have experienced feelings of thankfulness or gratitude.

In a 2020 Lifeway study, between 53 and 84% of people express their thankfulness on a weekly basis for their family, their health, their friends, memories, or freedom.

So how thankful are you today?

Or tomorrow? Or the next day? Or any day?

People who regularly practice thankfulness experience several physical benefits. They reportedly experience fewer aches and pains and generally feel healthier. They are more likely to engage in regular exercise and attend medical checkups. They also report having better sleep, especially after writing daily in a gratitude journal. They also report 10% less stress-related illnesses and lower blood pressure levels.

On the other side, those who do not make a regular practice of gratitude or thankfulness are more likely to suffer from mental health issues such as major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and phobias. A lack of gratitude or thankfulness has been associated with higher levels of stress, which can lead to various health problems. These individuals often report lower levels of life satisfaction and lower overall well-being.

So this Thanksgiving, what will you choose?

To be thankful for one day along with everyone else?

Or perhaps a new lifestyle that includes thankfulness on a regular basis, and all the improvements that come along with it.

Happy Thanksgiving from Thrivology.

Author
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Todd Call

CEO at Thrivology

Todd has a Master of Science degree in Marriage & Family Therapy from Harding University and has been a therapist for over 26 years. He has extensive experience with teenagers and families treating relational problems, addictions and behavioral problems.

How Thankful Are You Today?

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