The Secret Ingredient to a Longer, Happier Life
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted July 26, 2024
Let’s face it. We’re all in need of an attitude adjustment from time to time.
After all, when you turn on the news these days, the world can seem pretty dark.
That is unless you make it a practice to look for the silver linings.
In fact, Harvard researchers say when you do, something quite miraculous can happen…
A new study reveals that practicing an “attitude of gratitude” can literally extend your life.
Harvard researchers spotted a strong link in older adults between being thankful for the good things in life and living LONGER.
The study tracked older female nurses in the U.S. and found that those who showed a lot of gratitude had a much lower chance of dying.
In fact, those who were the MOST grateful had a nine percent lower risk of death from ANY cause than folks who were the least.
But that’s not all. Incredibly, a deeper analysis of the data reveals that being thankful made people 15 percent less likely to die from heart problems.
The links remained solid even after several key factors, including sociodemographics, religious and social activity, physical health, lifestyle choices, cognitive function, and mental health, were considered.
In other words, the science is clear that gratitude plays a VITAL in our health and well-being as we age, providing us with purpose and connection.
If you’re ready to live longer (and better), the following hacks can help you adopt an “attitude of gratitude” in your own life:
- Keep a gratitude journal: Write three things you’re grateful for daily.
- Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to the present moment and appreciate small pleasures.
- Express thanks: Regularly tell people how much you appreciate them.
- Volunteer: Helping others can increase your gratitude for what you have.
- Avoid comparisons: Focus on your own blessings rather than what others have.
- Use positive affirmations: Remind yourself of the good things in your life.
- Reflect on challenges overcome: Appreciate your resilience and growth.
- Savor experiences: Take time to fully enjoy positive moments.
- Practice gratitude meditation: Focus on feelings of thankfulness during meditation.
- Start and end your day with gratitude: Think of something you’re thankful for when you wake up and before bed.
- Write thank-you notes: Express your appreciation in writing to others.
- Use visual reminders: Place gratitude quotes or objects around your home or workspace.
- Turn negatives into positives: Find the silver lining in difficult situations.
- Practice gratitude walks: Notice and appreciate your surroundings during a walk.
Adopting gratitude into your daily life will send your quality of life soaring and can help you skate through darker and more difficult times. So why not get started today?
And another thing…
Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…
Parkinson’s Signs You Can’t Afford to Miss
Shuffling, tremors, and speech issues are expected Parkinson’s symptoms. However, research reveals other surprising early warning signs to watch for.
The Hidden Threat Behind Your Achy Joints
Think your creaky knees are just a nuisance? New research reveals osteoarthritis could be a warning sign of bigger health issues to come. Find out what this means for you and your loved ones.
Hidden Heatwave Threat REVEALED
Soaring summer temps can be harmful, especially if you’re ill or a senior. But there’s another hidden heat-linked threat that’s often overlooked. Discover if you’re at risk…
Household Favorite EXPOSED as Cancer Risk?
Is your daily routine putting you at risk? The WHO has just classified a common household product as “probably carcinogenic.” Find out if you’re in danger and what you can do to protect yourself.
Mailbag: Slash Your Risk of Bone Fractures as You Age
Osteoporosis diagnosis? You can do a lot to boost bone health and reduce the risk of it worsening. Here’s what I tell my own patients…
“Ebb and Flow” Technique TRANSFORMS Senior Brain Health
New research reveals an “ebb and flow” exercise technique improves cognitive function in older adults, with benefits lasting for years.
Do You REALLY Need All Those Skincare Products?
In today’s beauty-obsessed world, spending hundreds on products every month is easy. However, when it comes to skincare, LESS is often MORE.
P.S. You CAN develop a happiness habit [Here’s how…]
Source:
Chen Y, Okereke OI, Kim ES, Tiemeier H, Kubzansky LD, VanderWeele TJ. Gratitude and Mortality Among Older US Female Nurses. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online July 03, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.1687
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The Nightly Brain Reset You Can't Afford to Miss
We know sleep is vital. It’s right up there with eating your vegetables and regular exercise. But let’s be honest—many of us don’t prioritize it as we should. We’re up in the middle of the night binge-watching our favorite shows or tossing and turning, struggling to sleep. Then, when we wake up feeling irritable and...
Olive Oil “Trash” Is a “Treasure” For Your Health
You probably know that olive oil is a superstar ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. Its health benefits range from supporting heart health to reducing inflammation and protecting against certain cancers. But you know how they say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure? Well, in the case of a waste product from olive oil production,...
Low Carb Delivers HIGH Nutritional Rewards
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a big fan of low-carb eating. But I’m NOT talking about those extreme “meat-only” diets you might have heard about Instead, I encourage focusing on quality proteins and non-starchy veggies to keep your blood sugar in check and promote longevity. But I’m met with...
Are Electrolyte Sports Drinks REALLY Healthy?
You’ve undoubtedly seen the colorful sports drinks lining grocery store shelves. They promise to replenish our electrolytes and boost our performance. But are these trendy beverages really the health elixirs they claim to be? Keep reading to uncover the surprising truth about electrolytes and their impact on your health… Electrolytes are minerals in your blood...
The TRUTH About Winter Weight Gain
Happy New Year! If you’re like many folks, you woke up today thinking about the year ahead, determined to turn over a new leaf. In fact, the number one New Year’s resolution year after year is to lose some weight. Common wisdom claims that putting on five pounds over the winter is inevitable. But is...
Mailbag: 3 “Cocktail Companions” to Safely Ring in the New Year
“I don’t usually drink alcohol. But I’m going to a New Year’s party and might have a few drinks. Can I do anything to make them less harmful to my health?” -Cheering In the New Year Hi Cheering, As you prepare for your New Year’s celebration tonight, you may be looking forward to raising a...
Could a Fall Be a Warning Sign for Something WORSE?
Falls are an unfortunate reality for many older adults. They’re among the most common causes of injuries and hospital visits for seniors. But what if a fall could mean something more? New research raises concerns that falls might be more than just a physical issue—they could be an early warning sign of a devastating condition…...
Want to Live Longer? Reach for Your Toes
We know that staying active is crucial for healthy aging. But what if touching your toes might be just as critical as taking your daily walk? Surprised? Well, new research suggests that flexibility could be the secret ingredient to a longer, healthier life. A groundbreaking study from Brazil uncovered a fascinating link between flexibility and...
Tiny Toxic Threat Lurking in the Air You Breathe
Imagine taking a deep breath of fresh air, only to realize that—along with oxygen—you’re also inhaling tiny plastic particles. It may sound like a scene from a science-fiction film, but new research reveals microplastics have found their way into the very air we breathe—and they may pose serious risks to your health. Recently, scientists discovered...
Micro Eye Movements Make for Crystal-Clear Vision
Think about when you’re reading… Maybe you’ve come across a word you’re unfamiliar with. You zero in, focusing your gaze on each letter. But while you’re concentrating, your eyes are far from still. They’re making constant, tiny movements, even if you don’t notice them. Known as fixational drift, these micro-movements may actually be the key...