If I made a list of all the things I'm grateful for, the resumption of Battlestar Galactica Friday night would be near the top of the list. (Above that would be good friends, family, health and, of course, a loving husband. Honey, if you're reading this, please remember that you beat the frak out of the Cylons on my list ? especially when you open the credit card bill this month.)
Not only does gratitude do a lot to juice up a person's mood, but healthcare professionals are increasingly finding that it aids in a host of physical health issues, from boosting immune systems to enhancing sleep, healing and longevity.
Is it hokey? Maybe a little. But that doesn't mean practicing gratitude isn't effective. And now, if you're an iPhone user, it's easier than ever.
The Gratitude Journal from Happy Tapper is a simple little app that debuted in the App Store on New Year's Eve, just in time to remind change-minded resolution-makers that there are still some things worth appreciating and hanging on to.
The idea is to encourage users to jot down things they are thankful for everyday. The app accepts photos and search terms, offers inspirational quotes, and enables passcode protection and emailable entries. What it doesn't allow are negative thoughts, for which it send a little electrical zap to the user's hand. (Just kidding! But that would be kind of cool.)
Oddly enough, I really like the ability to rate the day. There's something kind of satisfying about listing a crappy day as such, as well as the good ones. And it's kind of revealing to compare the number of five-star days vs. one-star days (though this may not be great news for those with lots of bad days. But if you're a grouch, that's even more reason to get this app.)
Love the plain notebook-look of the mainscreen, though the themes are mostly kinda "girly" in taste. The choice includes clouds, snowflakes, flowers, paisley print and mountain themes. The only one that doesn't make my chick radar go off is the black dotted print. Still, even if it's too warm and fuzzy for some people, the thought behind it makes it worthy of a spot on anyone's phone. (And the little Gratitude dude is just awesome.)
Get yours soon. Word is, Oprah loves the Gratitude Journal, so you know there will probably be a run on the App Store.
(Thanks to Kim for the tip!)
