Looking At Our Lives With Gratitude Yields Benefits For Everyone

Monarch Landing offers many opportunities that foster reflection, whether through meditation, spirituality, or simply walking its scenic grounds.

The new year is a time of gratitude and reflection.

RetireHappy reminds us that listing our accomplishments can be a catalyst for continued success. In our busy day-to-day lives, it can be easy to forget all that we have achieved in any given week, month, or year. RetireHappy provides a number of prompts to consider in looking back—and looking forward:

-Who are the people in your life who matter the most to you?

-What new habits have you created?

-What have you learned?

-What have you done that has made a difference in the lives of others?

Another approach to reflection is creating a gratitude list, which is simply a list of a half-dozen or so things you’re thankful for in life. DevelopGoodHabits notes that regularly practicing gratitude results in benefits to mental and physical health. Furthermore, researchers have found that emotional well-being sees a boost when giving thanks. People who frequently count their blessings tend to be happier and avoid depression.

Monarch Landing senior living community offers many opportunities that foster reflection, whether through meditation, spirituality, or simply walking its scenic grounds. For those looking for a faster pace, there are many activities, clubs, and committees. Of course, senior living doesn’t mean slowing down.

There is a growing body of research focused on the neurological benefits of gratitude. Greater Good Magazine highlights a study where a group of participants wrote “gratitude letters” during a three-week period. Those who wrote letters reported significantly better mental health in future weeks versus those who did not.

There is a reason why so many of us exult in year-end traditions like holiday letters and annual “best of” lists. Knowing where we’ve been helps us see where we’re headed. And that’s why being grateful is a worthy pursuit most any time.