As we begin our country's annual ritual of feasting and giving thanks, researchers are finding that if we adopt a more appreciative attitude throughout the year--not just on Thanksgiving--we'd be happier, healthier and more altruistic.

In fact, researchers have recently begun trying to measure the benefits of gratitude in studies funded by the National Science Foundation.

In one study at Northeastern University, scientists found that when study participants received assistance from a lab assistant and were grateful for it, it improved both their physical and psychological well-being. They also tended to be more generous.

"In essence, gratitude leads to virtue in financial decisions," concluded Psychologist David DeSteno, the lead researcher. "It makes you pay it forward."

Brenda Shoshanna, author of '365 Ways to Give Thanks: One for Every Day of the Year,' theorizes that it's impossible to be depressed and grateful at the same time.

In her book, she claims that "an attitude of gratitude" makes a person physically, mentally and in every way healthier.

This year, because of our lackluster economy, it's a little more difficult for many of us to express our appreciation. But that makes it all the more essential that we do. Maybe it will lift us out of this Great Recession.

I, for one, am grateful for having meaningful work and a loving husband, and for being able to live in a beautiful place: Colorado.

Unfortunately, I will no longer be doing one part of my work--this blog--after today. However, I will continue to connect with readers by reporting on benefits news both in Business Insurance's weekly print magazine and online. Our 2010 Editorial Calendar presents some interesting new reporting opportunities with spotlights on "Rethinking Health Care" in January, "Value-Based Plan Design" in March and "Benefits for a Diverse Workforce" in May.

May you all have Happy and Healthy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year!