Particularly at this time of year, we are often reminded that it is better to give than receive but according to latest research into positive psychology, receiving can be just as good for the soul providing you remember to say thanks.
In a very interesting blog interview I came across, Alvaro Fernandez talked to Dr. Robert Emmons, who studies gratitude for a living as Professor of Psychology at University of California (UC) Davis and is Editor-In-Chief of the Journal of Positive Psychology.
According to Dr. Emmons Gratitude is a positive emotion that has only recently been subject to serious scientific study and the findings are very interesting. It is claimed that the practice of gratitude can increase happiness levels by around 25% and this increased well being is not difficult to achieve. A few hours writing a gratitude journal over a 3 week period is said to create an effect that lasts 6 months and brings with it other health benefits such as longer and better quality of sleep.
Related Reading
Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier by Robert Emmons
Book Description
As editor-in-chief of the Journal of Positive Psychology, Dr. Robert Emmons is uniquely qualified to put Albert Schweitzers famous dictum Gratitude is the secret to life to a rigorous scientific test.
In a book that will appeal to readers of Stumbling on Happiness and Martin Seligmans classic Learned Optimism, Emmons draws on the first major scientific study of the subject to show how the systematic cultivation of gratitude can measurably change peoples lives.
Emmons also reaches beyond science to bolster the case for gratitude by weaving in the writings of philosophers, novelists, and theologians. Like no other book has before, Thanks! inspires readers to embrace gratitude and all the benefits it can bring into our lives.
For more details and/or to get hold of this psychology book, just click on the following link.
Thanks!: How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier
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Exploring Psychology: Saying Thanks Will Make You Happier
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