Gratitude is the expression of appreciation for what one has. Moreover, it is a recognition of value independent of monetary worth. Spontaneously generated from within, it is an affirmation of goodness and warmth. This social emotion strengthens relationships, and its roots run deep in evolutionary history—emanating from the survival value of helping others and being helped in return.
Studies show that specific areas of the brain are involved in experiencing and expressing gratitude. However, brain scans of people assigned a task that stimulates expression of gratitude show lasting changes in the prefrontal cortex that heighten sensitivity to future experiences of thankfulness.
“A thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. People acknowledge the goodness in their lives … As a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals–whether to other people, nature, or a higher power”
What Is Gratitude?
Gratitude is a spontaneous feeling but, increasingly, research demonstrates its value as a practice—that is, making conscious efforts to count one’s blessings. Studies show that people can deliberately cultivate gratitude—and there are important social and personal benefits to doing so. It is possible to feel grateful for loved ones, colleagues, animals, nature, and life in general. The emotion generates a climate of positivity that both reaches inward and extends outward.
what do you experience by being grateful?
- increased happiness and positive mood
- more satisfaction with life
- less materialistic
- less likely to experience burnout
- better physical health
- better sleep
- less fatigue
- lower levels of cellular inflammation
- greater resiliency
- encourages the development of patience, humility, and wisdom
Why Gratitude Matters
Psychologists find that, over time, feeling grateful boosts happiness and fosters both physical and psychological health, even among those already struggling with mental health problems. Although, studies show that practicing gratitude curbs the use of words expressing negative emotions and shifts inner attention away from such negative emotions like resentment and envy, minimizing the possibility of ruminating, which is a hallmark of depression.
Today I am grateful for…
Despite all of the difficulties that were thrown at us in 2020, I must say this year was a really amazing year for me. Happiness is not about the luck of circumstances. It’s about how you approach life… with a grateful heart. Here are just a few things I am grateful for in 2020. I am grateful for my incredible husband Tomasz and my amazing kids that are always by my side. I am grateful for all the support and love I am receiving from my family and friends. Failures and challenges didn’t stop me from pushing forward. I am grateful that the Universe gave me a burning desire to be more, achieve more, and help more and more people. I am grateful for the hard times that I have experienced and that prepared me and shaped me for the amazing things to come. I am grateful I published my first book and became FBO of Forever Living. I am grateful that I hold my destiny in my hands… success and failure is all up to me (and you).