Gratitude is an emotion that allows us to acknowledge and appreciate what we have while expressing our appreciation. Feeling grateful boosts happiness and fosters both physical and psychological health by creating a climate of positivity that extends both inward and outward.
Gratitude can involve people, places or things that we are grateful for.
- Gratitude helps to move us away from negative emotions
- Helps even if you don’t share it
- Benefits take time
- Has lasting effects on the brain
How to start your gratitude practice today:
- Gratitude journal: write 3 things you are grateful for each day
- Create a gratitude jar with your family: add one strip of paper per person to a jar or cup each night before bed
- Have a supper or bedtime discussion about what everyone is grateful for
- Send messages to people who you are grateful for
*whichever one you choose to use as your practice is perfectly fine, however research shows that the daily practice of gratitude should stay the same for the most benefit!
Brene Brown – on joy and gratitude
Kid President – 25 Things to be Thankful For
Resources:
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_gratitude_changes_you_and_your_brain
Strong Healthy Individuals Navigating Emotions 