Staying Grateful in the New Year
By Stepy Kamei
The last few weeks of the year, as well as the first few weeks of a year, are often filled with a lot of self-reflection and goal-making. It's only natural to start thinking of ways to improve your lifestyle as you head into a new year. Many people make the familiar and common goals along the lines of starting up an exercise routine, eating healthier, losing weight, spending more time with family, etc. However, it's equally important to keep your mindset and attitude in mind when trying to implement positive change into your daily routine.
How Gratitude Promotes a Healthier Lifestyle
A negative mindset can do more damage to your sense of well-being than you may realize. Studies have shown that people who tend to be critical and pessimistic often suffer from a wealth of health problems, including mood disorders, chronic pain, insomnia, and digestive issues -- to name only a few. Staying positive and finding the good in any situation can be great for improving your quality of life; practicing gratitude is a great way to do this. When you're able to point out the positive aspects of your life, you're less likely to succumb to a bad mood.
Easy Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day
Something to be grateful about when it comes to gratitude? It's easy to practice! There are many different ways you can add this healthy habit into your everyday routine. Many health and wellness experts recommend keeping a gratitude journal by your bedside and writing in it every day. You may choose to write in it first thing in the morning or right before you turn in for the night. Whenever you decide to use it, all you need to do is write down 3-5 things you're grateful for. They can be broad and general things, such as being thankful for having a good job or a healthy family. You can also write about positive experiences which happened that particular day. Maybe someone gave you a nice compliment, or your morning cup of coffee was especially well-crafted. Simple as it sounds, recording these instances can really help remind you of all the good things in your life. Be sure to count your blessings, and more are bound to come along!
Consider adding chiropractic into your life to further improve your sense of health and well-being. Visit your local The Joint Chiropractic clinic today to see what chiropractic can do for you as you set about achieving your new year's resolutions.