Gratitude and Brain Health

We commonly hear about how giving gratitude is good for us. How it helps us appreciate what we have and the importance of doing a gratitude practice every day. I recently found Jim Kwik's podcast (thank you Spotify) and was intrigued by his knowledge of what gratitude does to your brain. It blew my mind...get it?

"What you appreciate, appreciates."

This is what blew me away;

Practicing gratitude changes the molecular structure of your brain.

Expressing gratitude, not just listing things you are grateful for but expressing and feeling grateful releases dopamine and serotonin into your system. Dopamine and serotonin are two neurochemicals that make us feel good. The beautiful part of all of this is that it is an instant release when we practice gratitude.

Try this if you ever feeling down, it’s simple just smile.

Improves brain function

Practicing gratitude helps your decision-making and increases productivity. This practice activates your prefrontal cortex, the critical thinking part of your brain.

Helps you sleep better & longer

Ever heard of the term "Brain Dumping"? This is when you write out everything on your mind before bed. Similarily when you write gratitudes before bed it acts as a form of brain dumping. This helps you release any thoughts that you may have. Allowing you to fall asleep without worrying thoughts.

Start with writing down 3 things you are grateful for every morning and evening.

Giving gratitude is a practice that takes less than 5 minutes and has a proven impact on your mental, emotional, and physical relationships. When you’re happy and feel good you naturally spread that energy onto others.

Check out our next blog post about starting a gratitude ritual!