Page 68 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2024

HEALTHY LIVING
GRATITUDE IN AGING
Mind over matter is very important when it comes to physical health. Whether you have been diagnosed with COVID or Lupus, how you view and live with your diagnosis affects your prognosis. As we age, our bodies undergo several changes. Basically, the body can begin
to show signs of declining. However, facing aging with a positive attitude in addition to medical intervention can add vitality and positivity to your recovery. For instance, being appreciative and practicing gratitude can change the overall quality of life and relationship interactions.
Scientists have studied the effects of gratitude on health. Research is ongoing, but studies have found that choosing to practice gratitude can make a world of difference while navigating aging and disease. Gratitude has been shown to be
story by Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray linked to improved mental and physical
well-being in older adults. It aids in reducing stress, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall quality of life. Expressing gratitude positively impacts specific health outcomes and could contribute to a more robust immune system.
• According to the National Institute of Health, practicing gratitude can improve physical well-being by encouraging better self-care.
• Practicing gratitude is a powerful tool that can increase happiness by lessening the impact of negative emotions. According to Harvard Health, it can also foster resilience, helping you cope with the negative feelings that may arise following a difficult diagnosis.
• Harvard Health also says gratitude enhances durability – facing new health
challenges requires mental toughness
and strength.
• Psychology Today tells us that expressing
appreciation fosters connections. Having a positive mindset can help form new relationships and reinforce existing ones.
• Practicing gratitude can boost self- esteem. Appreciating what you can
still accomplish can enhance your self- esteem and prevent you from comparing yourself to those unaffected by illness.
The senior population is growing and thriving thanks to technology and medical breakthroughs. The body will still age despite medical breakthroughs, and the inevitable will eventually arrive. However, practicing gratitude and having a positive mental outlook will prolong the good
life and aid in disease management and alleviation.
68 | November 2024
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