Virtual Wellness Room

Did you know that a gratitude practice can literally change the structure of your brain?

As human beings, it is much easier for our brains to focus on the negative. This is because of something called the Negativity Bias. But the good news is that we can change that. Our brains are constantly transforming through a process called neuroplasticity. The more you practice a specific behavior the more your brain changes to support that behavior.

When we practice gratitude on a daily basis we are essentially reprograming our brains to focus on the good around us. Below are several ways you can begin to practice gratitude. Try one out!

Three Things

At the end of each day, write down three things you are grateful for. The key to this practice is that each day you write three new things and allow yourself to feel a sense of gratitude as you do this.

If you would like to take an extra step, add the reason why for each thing your write.

At first, this may feel a little challenging. Start small, list a meal you enjoyed, a conversation you had, the comfort of your bed at night, etc.. The important thing is that you start somewhere.

To learn about other ways to develop a gratitude practice, check out UC Berkley's Greater Good Science Center Gratitude Page.

Increase Happiness

Positive Psychologist, Shawn Achor, shares five researched based practices to increase happiness and optimism levels, in this informative yet entertaining TED Talk. Take a few minutes to check it out and see which ones you can start putting into practice now.

Shawn Achor and Calm developed this Discovering Happiness Journal. You can use it as a guide to get to started!