Gratitude
Gratitude is not just a noun, it's a verb. It’s something you do. This is something I’ve learned to embrace in this last year. I’ve made it a daily practice, and it’s completely changed how I approach each day.
Instead of waking up and immediately diving into the news, social media, or a podcast—like we have all done at times—I’m trying to opt a more intentional start. It’s just a few minute each day where I turn inward, to stay informed, to be present & to practice gratitude. This simple shift has brought a deep sense of calm and clarity to my life.
“Gratitude is an act of self love that reaffirms your worth.”
– Dr. Rangan Chatterjee
So What makes gratitude so powerful? Research in the field of psychology and neuroscience has demonstrated that practicing gratitude has profound effects on both mental and physical health.
A comprehensive report from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley highlights that gratitude is linked to increased happiness, reduced stress, and stronger relationships. The research suggests that when we consciously cultivate gratitude, we initiate positive changes in the brain, enhancing neural pathways associated with emotional regulation and well-being (Greater Good Science Center, 2018).
Studies published in the National Library of Medicine show that gratitude is associated with improved heart health, better sleep, and even reduced inflammation (PMC10393216). These physiological benefits reinforce the idea that gratitude is not just a mindset shift—it has tangible effects on our bodies.
Gratitude is not a passive experience—it’s an active choice. It’s a practice that, when cultivated consistently, has the power to rewrite our perception, improve our health, and enhance our overall well-being. By making gratitude a verb—something we do daily—we create a life that is more full of things like: patience, happiness, fulfillment.
So regularly take a moment. Find something to be grateful for. The benefits are vast.
Below are a few examples of ways to practice a gratitude daily:
Starting the day with intention: Take a moment each morning to acknowledge something you’re grateful for.
Journaling: Writing down three things you appreciate each day.
Expressing gratitude to others: A heartfelt thank-you to someone.
Mindful reflection: Take a deep breath and focus on the present moment.
In my experience, I’ve found one particular gratitude exercise that works for me & has created a profound shift in my persepctive. If you’d like to hear more about this, I’d love to share more.
Let’s connect.
