By DePaul Healthy Trailblazer Journal reporters | Say thank you, write a thoughtful note, offer help, or simply notice and be appreciative of the things you have. These are just a few of the ways people can practice gratitude, said Tayla Tucker and other student reporters for the Healthy Trailblazer Journal following research on gratitude.  

Ms. Kai McClelland’s fourth-grade class recently researched why being grateful is great for our health. According to psychologists at Psychology Today, practicing gratitude has been shown to have a positive impact on your mental and physical health. 

“Gratitude makes me feel happy,” said Ameerah Dowling. “It is a good feeling,” added Kelvin Santiago Serrano.  

When asked what they are grateful for, James Ivey Jr. said he is grateful for his family and friends. We may also find other things to be happy about, says Madison Miree. She said she’s grateful for her family, friends, and for her life, but she is also grateful for her house, kittens, flowers, puppies, pools, waterparks, bunnies, and birds.   

According to the video “Gratitude for Kids” by Mental Health Center Kids, there are many activities you can do to practice gratitude. “Start a gratitude jar,” said Tailiamente Monte. Do a gratitude meditation where you breathe in for six seconds, clear your mind and think of something you’re grateful for, and then breathe out, said Kyleigh Walker.  

Or you can go on a gratitude walk. “Going on a gratitude walk will make you feel calmer, and you will feel more healthy,” said Knox Hill. So remember to take time out of your day to practice gratitude. It’ll be great. 

Written by Healthy Trailblazer Journal reporters in the fourth grade at The DePaul Catholic School

Compilation Illustration by Ameerah Dowling, Madison Miree, Taliamente Monte, and Eli Wilkerson