Having gratitude is something we hear all the time. It gets so redundant, that sometimes it’s hard to believe it has any power. But there is actual science behind being grateful. The biggest thing I have learned is that a person cannot be grateful and have fear at the same time. Your brain can’t feel these two emotions at the same time. That alone has saved me. If I start to have a crazy story start running through my head I can stop and think of all the things I am grateful for until the bad thoughts leave.
Scientists are now studying the practice of gratitude. They have found that people who are grateful have…
- Stronger immune systems and lower blood pressure
- Higher levels of positive emotions
- More joy, optimism, and happiness
- Acting with more generosity and compassion
- Feeling less lonely and isolated *
Consider creating a gratitude journal. Realizing the things you are grateful for helps cultivate happiness. My mom is the greatest at this. Every day she would tell me to LOOK FOR THE GOOD. This one thing has changed my entire life. I can find something good in any situation or any person. Try it- you can too!
*Greater Good Science Center, Berkley CA
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