The practice of gratitude is such a simple thing, but research shows that there are seven proven rewards:

• Better sleep

• Higher self-esteem

• Improved physical health

• Stronger mental health

• Increase new relationships and strengthen existing ones

• Reduce stress and assist in overcoming trauma

• More empathy towards others and less anger

That's a lot of benefits for something so easy to do.

I've come up with a few easy ways to add more gratitude to your day:

Make a point to be nice to people when you're out. I'm sure you always say please and thank you, but how about complimenting someone? If I see someone wearing something I like, I always try to say something.

And if I see someone who looks like they're having a bad day, I try and find something nice to say to them.

Keep a gratitude journal. You could use a special notebook, put it in your planner, or use the notes section on your phone.

Make being thankful a family tradition. Start each dinnertime with everyone saying one thing they are grateful for that day. You're spreading the benefits of gratitude to your family and teaching your children a valuable lesson.

Think of one thing you're grateful for at the end of the day. Make it a part of your nighttime routine. Being thankful improves your sleep anyway, but wouldn't it be nice to fall asleep thinking of the good things in your life?