Gratitude Linked to Longevity

Did you know that in 2024 JAMA Psychiatry published a study linking gratitude with a lower risk of mortality?

The researchers wondered why this was the case. Their results did not change when controlling for physical health, economic circumstances, and other aspects of well-being.

The research article quoted: 

“We know that gratitude makes people feel happier. That in itself has a small effect on mortality risk. Practicing gratitude may also make someone a bit more motivated to take care of their health. Maybe they’re more likely to show up for medical appointments or exercise. It may also help with relationships and social support, which we know contribute to health.”

I recently heard a fellow health practitioner say, “think of everything in your life as happening FOR you, not to you.”  I know it’s been more than a challenging year for many, and this may be a hard to even comprehend.

We must give empathy to ourselves in terms of grieving loss and hardships.  However, how do we have gratitude during the hardship to keep ourselves sane and lower stress on our immune systems, so we don’t compromise our health?

Research also shows that gratitude lists work. What are you grateful for this year? I’m grateful for each of you for going on your individual health journeys with me and trusting me through the process.  I’m grateful for all the health research and testing over the last few years that has allowed us to take our health to another level.

Amidst the twists of turns of 2025, adding daily gratitude to each day can be a game changer and that is free and leads to great health returns!