Thankfulness: meaning, definitions and examples

Psychology

• Studies show that practicing thankfulness can lead to increased happiness and better mental health.
• Gratitude journaling, where people write down things they're thankful for, can reduce feelings of depression.
• Research indicates that expressing gratitude can strengthen relationships and enhance social bonds.

Cultural Practices

• Many cultures celebrate thankfulness during harvest festivals, expressing gratitude for food and abundance.
• In some traditions, like Thanksgiving in the USA, families gather to share meals and express gratitude for each other.
• Certain religions incorporate expressions of thankfulness in their daily prayers or rituals, emphasizing gratitude toward a higher power.

History

• The concept of thankfulness dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was often linked to acknowledging the gods’ favors.
• The practice of giving thanks has been documented in writings from ancient Greek philosophers, emphasizing its importance in human life.
• In different cultures, historical figures have encouraged thankfulness as a virtue that promotes peace and community.

Health

• Practicing thankfulness can boost the immune system and improve sleep quality by reducing stress.
• Grateful people are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as exercising and seeking medical advice when needed.
• Healthcare providers often encourage thankfulness as part of holistic care, which contributes to overall well-being.

Literature

• Thankfulness and gratitude are common themes in many classic and contemporary books, often reflecting character growth.
• Poets throughout history, like William Wordsworth, have beautifully expressed the joy and peace that comes with being thankful.
• Storytelling often highlights the importance of gratitude, showing how it can transform relationships and lives.

Positioned at #20,559, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 20559 thankfulness
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• 20562 gloriously
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