At Thanksgiving, our thoughts turn to blessings and feelings of gratitude. Reflecting on this favorable outlook, the idea that an “attitude of gratitude” offers health benefits might be new to some, but the positive effects on our brains when we practice gratitude are undeniable!

In regard to cognitive development, gratitude is much more than just an emotion or expression. You might not have considered the ways that gratitude can transform our mental and cognitive well-being, but there are actually a number of benefits that are particularly fascinating.

Studies have shown that when we practice gratitude, depression can be reduced and levels of happiness are increased. However, there is even more great news in addition to feeling good when we utilize a grateful point of view, and that is the effect it has on the brain. Neuroscientists have learned that gratitude activates the area of the brain that produces dopamine, or the “feel-good” hormone. Dopamine provides feelings of satisfaction and motivation, improving mood and an overall sense of well-being. The consistent practice of gratitude can make our neural pathways stronger and helps us become more resilient towards stress which, in turn, enhances our mental health and cognitive function.

Roy T. Bennett provided us with invaluable advice when he said, “Start each day with a grateful heart.” Beginning a daily practice of gratitude can positively impact every interaction you have throughout the remainder of the day while also motivating and boosting mood.

For ideas on how to incorporate a grateful outlook, check out this article:

https://www.mindful.org/an-introduction-to-mindful-gratitude/

One of our favorite ideas of practicing gratitude is to write down three things we’re grateful for. These don’t need to be huge or life-changing, in fact, noticing the small, everyday moments has increased feelings of gratitude tremendously. When this practice is done consistently, the brain can actually be rewired to notice positive aspects and, in return, the brain is strengthened both mentally and cognitively. Thinking positively and with a grateful point of view is a win-win!

Consider how you feel when you focus on negative attributes of life and compare that to your state of mind when your outlook is positive. In an article by Advanced Etiquette, we read that “People who maintain a positive attitude tend to be optimistic, supportive, and constructive. Conversely, those with a negative outlook are often pessimistic, harmful, and unappealing.” Which type of individual would you rather be around? Which type of person do you want to be? The choice isn’t difficult, but sometimes changing our attitude can be. Keeping the benefits of practicing gratitude in mind, we encourage you to select at least one practice that will lead you toward a more grateful outlook and incorporate that action into your daily life. We’d love to hear what you’ve chosen and how that particular task has changed your outlook!
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