Sincere Gratitude – Remember to Say “Thank You” to Yourself
From setting intentions of gratitude during your Yoga practice to giving thanks at Thanksgiving, there is no lack of opportunities to express the gratitude we feel towards ourselves and others.
But, as our lives get more hectic by the day, it is often too easy to forget to say “thank you”. Nonetheless, introducing this practice into your daily routine can truly transform your self-image, your relationships, and your outlook on life.
Here are a few simple ways to start expressing sincere gratitude towards yourself today.
3 Ways to Express Sincere Gratitude Towards Yourself
Contents
From acknowledging someone who held a door open for us to concluding a formal work email, saying “thank you” is often something we do without giving these words much thought.
But expressing sincere gratitude is something different – and it is certainly a practice that can change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. No wonder, it is one of the main pillars of positive psychology!
But how do you start saying thanks to yourself daily? Consider the tips below!
Write a Thank-You Note to Yourself
Writing a thank-you note or letter to yourself is one of the most creative and efficient ways of expressing gratitude. From picking up pen and paper to using Punchbowl’s digital thank you cards, you can choose your favorite method of crafting a note that truly reflects your personality, achievements, and identity.
When writing a thank-you note, make sure to be gentle to yourself and focus on what your mind and body have helped you achieve in the past months, days, or even hours!
Take Care of Your Body and Mind
A great way to be more grateful to yourself is to start dedicating some more time to taking care of your mental and physical well-being.
To get started with self-care, consider taking actions such as:
- Implementing a meditation practice
- Keeping up with doctor appointments and regular checkups
- Addressing health issues as soon as they arise
- Looking at rest and sleep as essential body functions, not privileges
- Living a more active lifestyle that includes at least 30 minutes of exercise each day
- Eating a nutritious and balanced diet
Make Time to Do the Things You Love
We often get caught in the daily grind and we forget how important it is to dedicate time and mental resources to the things that give us happiness.
So, if you are looking for a way to say “thank you” to yourself, consider taking a hard look at your calendar and start making time for your favorite activities, no matter whether that’s a spa day, an afternoon of gardening, or a catch-up with friends!
3 Science-Backed Benefits of Expressing Gratitude
Expressing gratitude isn’t a gimmick – and science has proved it! Here is what you need to know about the science-backed benefits of saying “thank you” to yourself and others.
Expressing Gratitude Can Improve Your Relationships
Saying “thank you” when a request is fulfilled is certainly part of most cultures. However, the art of expressing gratitude goes beyond that.
Showing sincere appreciation to those around you can help you establish new relationships and gain a different perspective on the benefits that an existing connection with a friend or family member is offering you.
Ultimately, if you have been struggling to strengthen or mend a relationship, consider taking the first step by saying thank you!
Gratitude Can Improve Your Physical Health
According to a study conducted in 2014, individuals who are able to express their gratitude to others and themselves daily enjoy better health. That is because of their tendency toward taking better care of themselves, exercising more often, and keeping up with health checks.
Saying Thank You Can Make You Happy (And Boost Your Mental Health)
Last but not least, being grateful towards yourself more often is one of the best tips to find inner peace.
According to studies, expressing gratitude can ease emotions such as anger, resentment, and regret, while also booting empathy, happiness, and satisfaction. Being more grateful can also help you overcome trauma, sleep better, and increase mental strength.
Whether it is starting a gratitude journal or whispering “thank you” to yourself during your next yoga session, there are endless ways of incorporating sincere gratitude into everyday life – start today!
