Can Gratitude Help You Live Longer?

Posted on November 16th, 2022 by Cremation Center of Southern Utah under Gratitude, Holidays, Thanksgiving
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Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year, and not just because I’m always grateful for good food.  It’s a time of togetherness and gratitude and reminds us all to give thanks and remember to count our blessings.  I once read an insightful article published by The Fine Line written by Nicola Bridges entitled, “How Gratitude Can Help You Live Longer.”

The article states that, “in addition to having a positive emotional and psychological impact on our lives, gratitude can also have a positive physical impact.”  Studies are on-going, but practicing gratitude generally makes you feel better in the moment and appears to positively impact our brain, body, and spirit.

The article also indicates that people who practice gratitude tend to share specific traits and habits that may include the following:

– They are truly grateful for people, not just things.

– They are precise in their thanks. They don’t just say “I love you” – they take the time to explain why.

– They think outside the box. When something bad happens, they remember it’s important to flip the situation on its head and look for something good among the bad.

– They feel grateful for small things and complete positive tasks, such as keeping a daily gratitude journal, writing thank you notes, or meditating on the good they receive.

As a funeral director, I work closely with family members when their loved one passes away.  I witness all types of family dynamics and hear all kinds of stories.  Surviving family members often express gratitude for the life of their loved one, and my favorite narrative is that an ordinary person can make an extraordinary impact on those closest to them.   They appreciate the things they taught them and the love they shared.  Whether or not it helps you live longer, it is my wish that we may all live with an “attitude of gratitude” this holiday season.  In turn, this attitude helps those closest to us feel grateful to be a part of our lives.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Cremation Center of Southern Utah.  Visit us at 1316 S. 400 E., St. George, UT, (435) 986-9100.  Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @CremationCenterSU.

Submitted by Larry L. Hansen, Funeral Director/Owner

Cremation Center of Southern Utah

The Cremation Center of Southern Utah was founded in December, 2009. At the time, other mortuaries in the area were shying away from and even discouraging cremation. Our desire was to create a unique, warm, and caring environment where cremation was not only encouraged, but embraced.

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