Appreciation is Good Medicine
Appreciation is the conscious acknowledgment of something or someone. There are many positive emotions that come along with appreciation. Think of how happy you feel when you reflect on your successes in life; both small and great. Consider the joyful experiences of life you have had with those you love.
I make a conscious effort to appreciate nature. This includes experiencing beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and catching a beautiful sunset. I become overwhelmed with gratitude for being alive.
Sometimes, life can cause you to forget how to appreciate the simple things. It can be challenging to view the glass as half full. A “stress is enhancing” mindset is key to overcoming this. When we take action steps to re-wire our brains, it becomes easier. Researchers have found increased activity in key areas of “appreciative brains” by using PET scans. These “lit up” areas correlate with emotional processing and interpersonal bonding.
Appreciation is surprisingly good for your health. It improves your cognitive abilities and sense of well being. Feelings of appreciation creates more positive emotions. They dilute the negative emotions and reduce the toxic effects on your health. You also become less attached to negative stories you have created. Lets look at some of the health benefits of appreciation:
Physical Health Benefits
- Blood pressure control. It may reduce the need for multiple blood pressure lowering medications. This presumes you are eating healthy, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight. Being grateful makes it more likely that you will make the necessary life style changes.
- Improved immune system. Research has shown an increase in the blood cells which fight infection in those who are appreciative and optimistic.
- Quality sleep. Maybe you can get off of that prescribed sleeping pill which over time has lost its effectiveness.
Mental Health Benefits
- Decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Fosters resilience from traumatic experiences. This includes major life transitions such as divorce or becoming an empty-nester.
- Improved relationships with your mate, family, friends, and colleagues.
How to Cultivate Appreciation
- Write a letter to a loved one expressing gratefulness for your relationship. This is therapeutic even if the letter is not given to him or her.
- Keep an appreciation journal. Hit “pause” and think about the things often taken for granted (like the air we breath).
- Practice mindful meditation. Tune in and focus on what is present without judgement. Focus on your breathing. Note the random thoughts. Re-direct yourself to the breath as needed. Consistency is key.
- Discuss what you are grateful for with your loved ones. It brings more awareness to both of you. My oldest son is self-sufficient and thriving in his career. He recently told me about an overwhelming experience of appreciation for his life. A particular song caused him to recall many childhood memories. I shared in the experience and began to feel tremendous gratitude and peace with him.
Appreciation is an empowering tool that you can use anytime. There are no negative side effects. It is free and comes with with a life long refill. You are the prescriber! Hopefully you can see the health benefits of the “underappreciated” practice of appreciation. Start reaping them today!
