"We can choose to be grateful no matter what."

With emerging literature and evidence on the power of positive psychology, people are becoming more aware on how we can become happier and more fulfilled. One way to do this is through practicing gratitude.

There are many advantages to practicing gratitude; such as social, psychological, and physical health benefits. There are many ways in which we can practice giving gratitude throughout the day. Here are three easy ways to practice expressing gratitude:

Journaling

Plenty of people claim they want to be more calm and less stressed, however, few people are willing to take the time to make a change. Dedicating just 15 minutes at the end of the day to writing down a list of the day's positive events will serve as an antidote for negative emotions. If you commit to taking the time, journaling will turn into a habit rather than a chore and before you know it, you're going to look forward to it at the end of a long, stressful day. So get started! Write down what you're grateful for today.

Handwritten Thank You Cards

Texts and e-mails may be simple and effective, but there is something about a handwritten thank you card that makes the act of thanking someone more sincere. In this fast paced world we live in, people seldom write thank you cards anymore, which makes the recipient feel special. You're going to feel great knowing that you brightened someone's day with genuine words of thanks.

Giving a Specific Thank You

Don't be stingy with your thank you. Instead of a simple "thanks for your help," let them know exactly how they helped you. The effect of two words of thanks will be gone in seconds, but a specific thank you will be remembered and appreciated. It is incredibly rewarding to share your gratitude for someone who has helped you and to witness their appreciation in return.