By cultivating a thankful mindset, people can observe the benefits that this emotion brings to their lives. It can improve mood, boost self-esteem, and strengthen relationships. why is gratitude important in recovery By doing something kind or helpful for someone else, we not only bring happiness into their lives but also cultivate feelings of joy and satisfaction within ourselves.

Such exercises in gratitude can change people’s perspective and transform minds and hearts for the better in the interests of successful, long-term recovery. Within the context of 12-step recovery, there seems to be an implicit connection between gratitude and service. For example, you could thank a friend who supported you during a difficult time, write a note to a coworker who helped you with a project, or give a gift to a family member who made you laugh. Expressing how thankful you are to them makes you feel good, strengthens your relationships, and makes others feel valued.

Why Gratitude Matters and How It Can Transform Recovery

Practicing gratitude in your everyday life is more than just saying “thank you” or being internally thankful for a life that is free from addiction. Practicing gratitude is using your behavior to be an example of a person whose actions are guided by the principles of the 12 steps and then sharing that goodness with other people in your life. So, commit yourself to practice gratitude daily; soon, it will become a natural part of your recovery journey. In any relationship, it’s easy to dwell on the negative and forget about all of the good. But if you take a step back and focus on the best in others, it can help you feel more grateful for the people in your life.

• Jordan Kadish graduated Magna Cum Laude from The College of New Jersey with a B.A.
• When we honor and appreciate other people’s assets, we create a safe environment where they, too, can feel happy and grateful, and they benefit from our presence.
• Gratitude shouldn’t only be practiced when something amazing happens, like receiving a job offer at your dream career or seeing a long-distance friend.
• There are many guided meditations on different meditation apps or YouTube that are free.
• Taking time to cultivate a positive life outlook and to invest in gratitude can improve your health in several ways.

Those who view recovery as a burden or see their recovery experience as negative are more likely to turn back to alcohol or drugs. Gratitude inspires the mind and the body to turn away from substance abuse. Many great thinkers and philosophers have applied definitions to gratitude. Recent work on the concept of gratitude in philosophy and psychology.

The Experience Blog

Positive psychology not only impacts your mental health, but physical, spiritual and social health too. Making an effort to practice gratitude regularly can have an incredibly positive impact on your mental health. It forces you to appreciate the progress you’ve made, enjoy even the minor things in life and acknowledge everything in life that helps you — such as people, your body, medication and more. Countless studies have found that people who actively practice gratitude report higher levels of happiness and are less likely to suffer from depression. Addiction strips away all the good things in life; health, happiness, contentment … you name it.

• It’s a simple but effective way to acknowledge the efforts of those around us and recognize the positive impact they have on our lives.
• A grateful person knows sobriety is essential to healing the harm caused by addiction to themselves and to others.
• For many, our brains have been wired and become accustomed to thinking one way—often negative.
• This is extremely beneficial, as gratitude can negate the rise of the ego.
• Making an effort to practice gratitude regularly can have an incredibly positive impact on your mental health.

However small, this simple act of appreciating what we have ignites a shift in perspective. Instead of dwelling on what’s missing, gratitude illuminates the blessings that already grace our lives. In the context of substance use recovery, this shift can be revolutionary. Feeling grateful triggers https://ecosoberhouse.com/ positivity that reflects in your subconscious mind influencing your behavior towards people around you. Being able to recognize all those who help us get through life brings a sense of radiance into our everyday demeanor setting an example that paying it forward only leads to prosperity.