Gratitude and Your Health

During this time of year we are particularly reminded to give thanks for all the blessings we have and to show gratitude to those that have paved the way before us. I have also been particularly grateful for the family and friends that have visited us over the past week and who have provided Emily and I much needed support. Of course, I am most thankful for my wife and all that she does for me on a continual basis. 

While many of you might share the above sentiments about family and friends you might not have thought of the potential health benefits of gratitude. For example, in one study those that focused on gratitude in the form of keeping a gratitude journal saw their doctor less and exercised more than those that focused on aggression. (1)

Gratitude is also associated with:

• Improved sleep
• Reduced stress
• Enhanced well-being
• Improved cardiovascular health (2)

Gratitude and happiness starts by changing your thoughts in the here and now. Each day you have the opportunity to focus on empowering thoughts and eliminate those that will hinder your way.

Let me know your thoughts on gratitude.

Visit the home page for more information on Murdock Health and our services or call 214-929-2411 to schedule an appointment today. We are now open. 


1. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 2003: 84(2); 377-389 (PDF)
2. American Journal of Cardiology 1995 Nov 15;76(14):1089-93