Thanksgiving Health Benefits

What does a thankful heart and attitude do for you? Plenty. We know that Proverbs 17:22 (ESV) says “a joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Now science is catching up to the truth of God’s Word. Robert Emmons, a Psychology Professor at UC Davis leads research in what he terms ‘positive psychology’. He says those who adopt an ‘attitude of gratitude’ as a permanent state of mind experience many health benefits. He also concludes that the more we are aware of the positives in our lives our focus of attention will be outward, not inward. Doesn’t that sound like a Christian walking in love and thanksgiving?

Also, Patrick J. Skerrett, Executive Editor, Harvard Health adds that laughter and joy increases your heart health. A thankful heart will laugh easily, and it’s laughter that’s contagious and draws you in. His research shows that thankfulness helps improve blood flow and long-term physical and mental health and triggers chemical responses in the brain leading to pleasurable feelings and a sense of well-being. The endorphins that are released during laughter encourage receptors in the lining of blood vessels aiding in relaxing arteries, permitting easier blood flow.

Enjoy the benefits of a joyful and thankful heart!