By Sathya Narayana
The word "gratitude" has been derived from the Latin word 'gratia' which suggests graciousness or being grateful.
There are many emotions which define humanity such as helping others in times of distress, giving food to the needy, educating the poor etc. The sense of gratitude has been described as one of the best prayer to humanity. Although not well-defined in a perfect statement, it is best explained as an emotion which emphasizes on appreciation for the timely help received or for the material benefits/affection by the Supreme Power.
Another definition states that gratitude is emotion felt when humans are unable to suppress memories of wonderful joys that have come in their path of life.
Human beings have understood that their lives are based on the support given by numerous people. Every action or reaction of their family or friends is part of their daily life, example from food to the basic amenities like water etc. A happy family life is the best key to success. Success in any field can be achieved only by support from family members. Gratitude is easy to cultivate and believed - it can also be done as a habit - if a human being is grateful for the gifts and benefits received, it helps strengthen relationships.
Gratitude can be cultivated by maintaining a diary. Recording of three events once a week has been found to achieve positive results. Persons who have helped at an inopportune time can be sent "gratitude letters" or letters delivered in person to increase feelings of goodness. These letters have been found to act as emotional boosters in terms of distress.
In teenagers, gratitude has been found to promote happiness, score better grades and help develop a positive outlook towards life to face challenges. In sports, gratitude has been found to enhance team participation and satisfaction.
All religions, preach the art of gratitude in their principles, laws and even in their sacred texts.
Gratitude is often confused with appreciation. Appreciation is a term which can be related to something that has happened in the present time. Gratitude on the other hand connects more to the past. To be grateful even in the most adverse of circumstances is difficult.
Regarding the health aspects, gratitude helps in reducing depressive mood, blood pressure, stress, uneasiness, insomnia and loneliness. It promotes trust, hope, empathy, appreciation, compassion, forgiveness, equality, productivity in career, relaxation, inner peace, self-control, spirituality, self-esteem, decision making and satisfaction in life.
"Prayer is the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening." ~Mahatma Gandhi
The word "gratitude" has been derived from the Latin word 'gratia' which suggests graciousness or being grateful.
There are many emotions which define humanity such as helping others in times of distress, giving food to the needy, educating the poor etc. The sense of gratitude has been described as one of the best prayer to humanity. Although not well-defined in a perfect statement, it is best explained as an emotion which emphasizes on appreciation for the timely help received or for the material benefits/affection by the Supreme Power.
Another definition states that gratitude is emotion felt when humans are unable to suppress memories of wonderful joys that have come in their path of life.
Human beings have understood that their lives are based on the support given by numerous people. Every action or reaction of their family or friends is part of their daily life, example from food to the basic amenities like water etc. A happy family life is the best key to success. Success in any field can be achieved only by support from family members. Gratitude is easy to cultivate and believed - it can also be done as a habit - if a human being is grateful for the gifts and benefits received, it helps strengthen relationships.
Gratitude can be cultivated by maintaining a diary. Recording of three events once a week has been found to achieve positive results. Persons who have helped at an inopportune time can be sent "gratitude letters" or letters delivered in person to increase feelings of goodness. These letters have been found to act as emotional boosters in terms of distress.
In teenagers, gratitude has been found to promote happiness, score better grades and help develop a positive outlook towards life to face challenges. In sports, gratitude has been found to enhance team participation and satisfaction.
All religions, preach the art of gratitude in their principles, laws and even in their sacred texts.
Gratitude is often confused with appreciation. Appreciation is a term which can be related to something that has happened in the present time. Gratitude on the other hand connects more to the past. To be grateful even in the most adverse of circumstances is difficult.
Regarding the health aspects, gratitude helps in reducing depressive mood, blood pressure, stress, uneasiness, insomnia and loneliness. It promotes trust, hope, empathy, appreciation, compassion, forgiveness, equality, productivity in career, relaxation, inner peace, self-control, spirituality, self-esteem, decision making and satisfaction in life.
