Benefits of gratitude: The healthiest side dish


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SALT LAKE CITY — It's the season of thanks, and research shows being grateful can have many health benefits.

Spencer Hansen, an addiction psychiatrist with Intermountain Health, works with a lot of people who may find it challenging to feel grateful.

But he said having a thankful mindset can help us feel better physically, especially our sleep and our cardiovascular health. Plus, there are mental health benefits, with studies showing gratitude can increase happiness by 25%.

And it doesn't have to be anything extravagant; having an attitude of gratitude could also mean keeping a journal.

It's not just for the holidays, too; you can cultivate thankfulness year-round.

"(It's) a very simple tool that everyone can practice day after day just to make our homes, neighborhoods, and communities healthier," Hansen said.

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Emma Benson, KSL-TVEmma Benson
Emma Benson is a storyteller and broadcast media professional, passionate about sharing truthful, meaningful stories that will impact communities. She graduated with a journalism degree from BYU, and has worked as a morning news anchor with KIFI News Group in Idaho Falls. She joined the KSL-TV team in October 2023.
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