If you are a follower of Oprah and other modern day sages, you may be familiar with the idea of writing “gratitude journals.” While the act of diarizing what you are thankful for may seem to be a fluffy attempt at self-help, new studies have found that it is in fact an effective tool.  In a research project titled “Dimensions and Perspectives of Gratitude” researchers have found that “gratitude is the “forgotten factor” in happiness research.” They examined “the nature of gratitude, its causes, and its consequences.” The findings are very interesting and shed light on the correlation between gratitude and ones physical wellbeing.

To read an overview of the project and its finding, click here