When was the last time you stopped to really acknowledge the things you’re thankful for? There’s a whole host of reasons why we should make gratitude a daily practice — research has shown that being thankful confers a whole host of health benefits, from improved immune systems, to feelings of connectedness, even higher team morale.

1. Good for the heart. Studies show that appreciation and positive emotions are linked with changes in heart rate variability and overall health.

2. Good for the immune system. Gratefulness is linked with optimism, which in turn is linked with better immune health WebMD reported.

3. Reduces stress. WebMD reported that negative events can boost gratitude, and that gratitude can help to boost feelings of belonging and decrease feelings of stress. For example, a survey showed that feelings of gratitude were at high levels after 9/11, according to WebMD.

4. Strengthens relationships. Being thankful for the little things your partner does could make your relationship stronger, according to Psychology Today.

5. Improves sleep. Writing down what you’re thankful for as you drift off to sleep can help you get better ZZs, according to a study in the Journal of Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being.