four reasons to practice gratitude
Gratitude unshackles us from toxic emotions!
Studies have proven that the practice of affirming gratitude in one's life, decreases the frequency of negative emotive words, which shifts the attention from toxic emotions. Thus allowing you to focus more on the good!
Gratitude will improve your mental well-being even if you don't share it!
The mere act of brainstorming what you're grateful for or writing a gratitude letter is personally beneficial in so many ways, even if it's all kept to yourself. However, you may feel an increased sense of joy, and a greater shift from negative feelings and thoughts, if you share your appreciation with others in your life!
Practicing gratitude is a journey!
Commit yourself to consistently showing & feeling appreciation. The psychological benefits of gratitude writing emerge gradually, as they help to train your brain to shift from the negative thought patterns to the positive ones. That's why it's important to keep a gratitude journal or share your gratitude regularly with others!
Gratitude has lasting effects on the brain!
Studies have proven that after just 3 months of regularly practicing gratitude, people's brains show greater activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which is an area of the brain attributed to learning and decision-making. This suggests that one who is more grateful is also more attentive to how they portray their gratitude. Studies also show greater activation of the medial prefrontal cortex in those who practice gratitude writing when they experience gratitude themselves. This supports the lasting effects that gratitude has on the brain!