In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), gratitude is more than an emotional state—it is a practice that promotes the smooth flow of qi (vital energy), harmonizes the organs, and strengthens the body’s self-healing mechanisms. Modern research echoes this ancient wisdom. A Harvard University study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, found that gratitude is linked to increased longevity and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in older women.
According to TCM philosophy, emotions directly influence health, with gratitude fostering balance in the heart, spleen, and liver—organs that play a key role in circulation, digestion, and detoxification. When gratitude is cultivated, it reduces stress-related stagnation, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances overall vitality, potentially contributing to a longer life.
Scientific Evidence: How Gratitude Supports Longevity
The study analyzed data from nearly 50,000 women in the United States, with an average age of 79. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing their gratitude levels, and researchers tracked their health outcomes over four years.
The results showed that women with the highest gratitude scores had a 9 percent lower overall mortality risk. They also had a 15 percent lower risk of cardiovascular-related death, suggesting a strong protective effect on heart health. The benefits remained even after adjusting for factors like social engagement, religious involvement, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
These findings align with previous research. A 2016 study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that practicing gratitude was associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein, which is linked to heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
TCM Perspective: Gratitude and the 5 Internal Organs
TCM is a category of medicine based on energy. It believes that the energy of an individual runs along channels called meridians. If the meridians are smooth, one will not get sick. If there is a blockage somewhere, pain and even cancer, can occur.Heart and Mind
TCM posits that the heart governs the mind, and being grateful fosters a happy mood, calms the mind, and therefore protects the heart, Shu said.Liver and Stress Resistance
In TCM, the liver is responsible for the smooth flow of energy in the body. The liver is closely related to emotions and is especially sensitive to negative emotions such as resentment.Spleen and Digestion
According to TCM, the spleen represents the digestive system and belongs to the same energy system as the pancreas, intestines, and stomach.Lungs and Immunity
According to TCM, the lungs are closely linked to the body’s defensive energy or immune system. Experiencing gratitude can strengthen this defensive energy, improving the body’s resistance to illnesses like colds and flu.Kidneys and Aging
TCM emphasizes the kidneys’ role in the vital essence that governs growth, development, and aging. TCM theory views that fear depletes kidney energy, potentially accelerating the aging process. By alleviating fear and stress, gratitude may help preserve kidney essence and promote healthy aging.People and Things Worthy of Gratitude
Gratitude is a simple practice that fosters inner and outer harmony by acknowledging the interconnectedness of people, environment, nature, and universal principles.- Be grateful for the teachings of pain: Pain is a trial of life, in which we will grow, gain more experience and wisdom.
- Be grateful for growth through adversity: When facing difficulties and hardships, our will is tempered, and we can be grateful that we have become stronger.
- Be grateful to nature and life: When natural disasters strike, when we understand the fragility of life, we will cherish life and nature more. Be grateful for everything we have and learn to live in harmony with nature.
- Be grateful for the brilliance of humanity: In disasters, we also see the brilliance of humanity and help each other. “These little moments are worth cherishing. We must remember that this kind of power and care will give us a strong positive force.”
4 Ways to Practice Gratitude
“Habits become second nature,” Shu said. We can cultivate a grateful attitude through persistent practices to improve our physical, mental, and spiritual health at any time.1. Keep a Diary
Regularly recording things you are grateful for, such as a kind gesture or a pleasant experience, can help create a shift in perspective.2. Express Gratitude Verbally and in Writing
The act of expressing gratitude verbally and in writing can also promote the harmony of interpersonal relationships. When everyone is grateful to each other, the energy of gratitude will circulate among us.3. Sit and Meditate
Sit quietly for a few minutes every day, remember the people and things that are worthy of gratitude to you, and let this feeling of gratitude be integrated into every cell of your body.4. Do Good Things
Translating gratitude into actions that benefit others can amplify its positive effects, potentially reducing chronic inflammation and other health issues.Practicing gratitude is a skill that can be honed like anything else we want to learn. All we have to do is remember the beautiful things that happened each day and make a note of them. Even if it was not a great day, we are alive and breathing, which alone is something to be grateful for.