The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude involves focusing on the present moment and appreciating the good in one's life. It involves taking nothing for granted and seeing all that is good as a gift.

Over the last five weeks I have engaged in the morning ritual of taking just five minutes to write down at least three things that I am most grateful. Sometimes I write down the most small or trivial things, or sometimes I write down more grand, "important" things. A few examples of what I have been grateful for the past fews days include a warm cup of coffee, having a bed to sleep in, having plants in my room, the gift of having an education, my boyfriend, a family member, or a close friend. It does not matter what I write down, just the action of thinking about what I am grateful for does wonders for my brain. I have found this practice to be deeply transforming, not only does it set my day up with a positive attitude but it also has changed me as a person. I have become a more positive, grateful, generous, and appreciative individual.

Research has found that gratitude has a number of health benefits. A leading researcher in brain and mind health, Dr. P. Murali Doraiswamy states that, “if thankfulness were a drug, it would be the world’s best-selling product with a health maintenance indication for every major organ system.” Gratitude alters the brain and overall body and can be the best type of "medicine". It can improve physical health by lowering inflammation and blood sugar, boosting immune function, and promoting heart health. It can increase happiness, self-esteem, optimism, and life satisfaction by lowering stress and emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Sleep and energy levels have also been shown to improve. Lastly, it is also a predictor of good relationships and opens doors to new relationships as it enhances the capacity for forgiveness.

I challenge you all to practice more gratitude. Take just 5 minutes in the morning to write down 3 things you are most grateful for. I promise you won't regret it!

With Love

-Mimi