Embracing Gratitude: A Journey to a Healthier Mind
In the bustling rhythm of everyday life, it's easy to overlook the power of a simple 'thank you.' But did you know that gratitude isn't just about good manners—it's a booster for your mental health? Funny enough, I have had some hard times recently and gratitude was something I would have to search the deep undergrounds for. Hence, I figured writing about it might get some in me and you too! Let's dive into five fun and surprising facts about how gratitude can transform your mental wellbeing.
1. Gratitude Rewires Your Brain:
Neuroscience has a fascinating take on gratitude. When you express gratitude, your brain releases dopamine and serotonin, two crucial neurotransmitters responsible for our emotions, and they make you feel 'good'. Let's not get too "sciencey" now but regularly practicing gratitude can actually rewire your brain to be more sensitive to experiencing gratitude, creating a positive feedback loop!
Think about it like looking at a cup half full and half empty; every day after a bad incident, I walk around sulking and complaining about the world around me. trust me, everything around me just happened to tick me off. But then, I said to myself "let's look at the world in another light. It's time to start being thankful for what I have; I'm grateful about the freedom I have in the open world, I'm grateful about the wholesome friends I have left, and I'm grateful about all the things I have and have access to." The list could go on, but you get the idea. Sometimes, we just have to look at the world from a different side of the thought spectrum and we'll "rewire" the world around us.
2. Sleep Tight with a Grateful Mind:
Struggling with sleepless nights? Gratitude might be the natural sleep aid you're looking for. Studies suggest that jotting down things you're grateful for before bed can improve sleep quality. It seems counting blessings beats counting sheep! Here's what I do:
Recently, I've began writing a journal. Really, it's a fancier word to call a "diary". The point of it all is to be able to write my feelings down and realize what my thoughts sound like from a third-person's perspective. More importantly, it allows me to pour my feelings out in full confidentiality. It's like a free therapist at the tradeoff of painful fingers. What I was getting at is that writing that journal would allow me to reflect on my day and feel all the feelings I'm entitled to feel and also to feel grateful for all the good on a daily basis.
3. Stress Less, Thank Gratitude:
It's not like I'm coming to you simply saying "hey buddy, don't stress" and expect you to simply take a "chill pill". High stress is a common culprit behind various mental health issues. Gratitude can help! By focusing on positive aspects of life, gratitude practice can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, making your day-to-day challenges more manageable.
Obviously, we all get stressed out and it's pretty much unavoidable. I can't avoid stress myself too. After all, we're only people. But the main point is no matter what stress we are facing, it's nice to take some time out and take a breather to reflect on the positivity we all have in life and count down from ten. Then look back at point number 2.
4. A Shield Against Anxiety and Depression:
Regularly expressing gratitude can lead to lower levels of anxiety and depression. This isn't just about seeing the glass half full (like our first point); it's about altering your brain's typical response to anxiety and depressive thoughts. It's like training your mind to seek light even in darker times.
Personally, I take some time out of my day and meditate. Meditation has been proven to lower anxiety levels and clear a cluttered mind. Mostly, it's a great opportunity to empty your mind fill it with positivity.
5. Boost Self-Esteem with a Dose of Gratitude:
Ever feel down about yourself? Gratitude can help boost your self-esteem. By appreciating what you have, you're less likely to compare yourself negatively to others. Grateful people often feel more confident and less envious.
Gratitude: Your Mental Health's Best Friend
These five facts shine a light on how a simple act of gratitude can bring about significant positive changes in our mental health. It’s not just about feeling good momentarily; it’s about cultivating an attitude that can uplift your entire mental landscape.
As we conclude, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for today. Remember, the more you practice gratitude, the more reasons you’ll find to be grateful. Share with us in the comments: What’s one thing you’re grateful for right now?