Gratitude should be practiced daily, not just one day.
Gratitude is much more than being thankful for a brief moment in time. It requires practice. It is a mindset. It is counting your blessings and believing that there is truly something larger than yourself that has made these blessings possible.
There have been several studies that show the health benefits of practicing gratitude and how a state of gratitude can benefit the body.
Here are a few of the major benefits of practicing gratitude:
Increases levels of our happy neurotransmitters, notably serotonin and dopamine
Decreases risk of fear, depression and anxiety by regulating stress hormones like cortisol
Increases activation of the medial prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with emotional regulation and decision-making
Increases activation of the hippocampus and amygdala, areas of the brain associated with memories, learning, and emotional regulation
Increases activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the body to “rest and digest”
These changes don’t happen overnight. It requires commitment and consistency. Over time, the brain is rewired and new neural pathways are created.
Every morning, I make note of 3 things I am grateful for. It can be as simple as having a bed to sleep in or clean water to drink. My mindset has shifted and I most definitely have noticed improvements in my overall mood and stress levels.
Do you practice gratitude? If not, give it a go and see how your life changes.
I am beyond grateful for the love and support this community has provided as well as my ability to help others in achieving better health.
What is one thing you are grateful for today?