This Thanksgiving, take the opportunity to start a gratitude habit. Not only will your mood improve, but you’ll also see lifelong health benefits.

According to the American Heart Association, a boost in mood is only the beginning of the positive effects of cultivating a spirit of gratitude. A regular gratitude practice can lead to better sleep, lower blood pressure and improved immune function.

In Psychology Today, Amy Morin identifies scientifically proven benefits of gratitude. Among them are:

• More social connections. Expressing appreciation can lead to new friendships.
• Enhanced empathy and reduced aggression. When you are grateful, you are more likely to interact in positive ways, even in challenging relationships.
• Improved self-esteem. With a spirit of gratitude, you are less likely to compare yourself unfavorably to others and are more able to celebrate others’ accomplishments.
• Increased mental strength. Gratitude improves resilience and your ability to overcome trauma.

The National Institutes of Health offers the following tips for cultivating thankfulness:

• Each day, take a moment to think about the positive events that have happened.
• Use a journal to write down things you are grateful for.
• Notice and savor positive moments.
• Relive positive moments by thinking about them or sharing them with others.
• Write a letter to someone you feel thankful for.
• Visit someone to tell them in person that you appreciate them.

Keep the little things in mind when expressing gratitude, the American Heart Association says. Be grateful for small pleasures such as a sunny day, a friend who lifts you up, your morning coffee or a movie that inspires you. You may be rewarded with improved physical and mental health.