By: Leo Davies
We live in a world where emojis are words and likes are reponses. Yet, writing and receiving a handwritten letter does so much for our mind and soul. Here we will look at the proven benefits of writing a letter, receiving a letter, and how to format a letter.
Did you know that writing a letter, specifically one based in gratitude, a thank you letter or card for example, can increase your well-being for up to four weeks and even lead you to exercise more? That is exactly what a Pchelin and Howell study found in 2014. Specifically, recalling the event of writing the letter can make you happier up to four weeks later, and those who participated in writing letters of gratitude, increased their exercise by one hour a week. So if you’re looking for a new motivation to workout, there you go!
Receiving a letter causes excitement and brings a feeling of sentimentalism.
Opening a letter you did not expect to receive, increases our happiness, releasing endorphins instantly. No waiting period, no stipulations, just a burst of excitement. And while some people may not physically keep a letter or card, they will certainly remember you did it.
So how do you write a letter, how do you put together a thank you card? The best advice: write from the heart, and be specific. But in the case of wanting more direction, below are some helpful links:
Formulating a letter: https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-to-write-a-letter/
Addressing an envelope: https://ideas.hallmark.com/articles/card-ideas/how-to-address-an-envelope/
Writing a thank you card, per occasion: https://www.writeexpress.com/thank-you.htm
Leo Davies