In 1621, the colonists and Native Americans shared in a feast celebrating their first harvest. This tradition of giving thanks and extending gratitude is repeated each year when we take time out in late November to celebrate family and friends with good food and traditional Thanksgiving activities. The practice of gratitude, however, is not something we should limit to a mere one day a year; it is something we can benefit from every day.

Scientific studies have shown that expressions of gratitude can result in an improved sense of well-being and happiness. Psychologists Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough conducted a study on gratitude and thankfulness. Among their findings was evidence that the practice of gratitude can increase a person’s happiness by 25 percent. Appreciating and having a positive outlook can make the unhappiness in a person’s life less distracting and debilitating. It is reported that optimistic individuals also experience other beneficial health effects, such as faster recovery from medical procedures and more progress toward personal goals.

Gratitude can have physical and social health benefits as well. A simple gesture of appreciation can nurture relationships and improve overall health. Benefits include greater energy, a stronger immune system, and sounder sleep. In general, people who have a positive outlook take better care of themselves and benefit from the physical advantages that better self-care provides.

If you want to learn more about how to extend and promote this season’s feeling of goodwill and appreciation come to the Madison College Libraries. Read about the benefits of kindness and gratitude in books such as “Leading with Kindness: How Good People Consistently Get Superior Results.” The increasing popularity of spiritual philosophies that promote the practice of gratitude is discussed in the book “How to Train a Wild Elephant and Other Adventures in Mindfulness.” These and similar titles can provide strategies for expressing gratitude and increasing self-awareness.

If books aren’t your thing, get out your popcorn and movie candy and watch streaming videos on positivity.  Choose from titles such as “How to Be Happy! Positive Psychology in Action, The Optimism Advantage: 50 Simple Truths to Transform Your Attitudes and Actions into Results and Staying Happy and Positive Throughout Life.”

Access these online resources at home with your student username and password.

After the holiday season has passed continue the practice of expressing gratitude and appreciation, and benefit from its many treasures. You’ll feel better all year long.