Charleston School of Law continues Mental Health Awareness Week at 12 noon on the second floor in the Wellness Room (across from Room 220). Today’s focus is in gratitude.

When was the last time you stopped to think about what you’re grateful for? Gratitude is simply focusing on what you have instead of what you lack. All this requires is thinking about the positive things in your life and how thankful you are for them. It sounds simple, but the benefits of doing this are substantial.

Gratitude improves self-esteem, helps with sleep, improves physical health, and improves relationships.  This mental state grows stronger with use and practice, and eventually gratitude becomes a habit.

Here are two quick ways to cultivate gratitude:

1. Say Thank You: You can feel more connected and nurture your relationship with another person by thanking them for their kindness or impact on your life. A simple email or text expressing your appreciation takes just a couple minutes.

1. Trios Your Gratefulness: Identify and reflecting on three things you are grateful for each day. Be specific.