In the current era, a mechanical way of life is associated with profound stress that can lead to development of variety of mental health problems. 

Unwelcomed thoughts can be challenging while managing daily responsibilities. This could results in extreme distress and a complete loss of touch to reality. At this stage, cultivating an attitude of gratitude is beneficial to manage our mental well-being.

The science behind practicing gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that forces us to take a moment and appreciate for what we have. Gratitude reinforces the idea that there is goodness around us and in our life. Simple act of gratitude helps us to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for and change our outlook to see the world.

According to research studies, expressing gratitude has both physical and mental health benefits that would be beneficial to improve our social well-being. 

When our mind experiences the feeling of gratitude, our brain starts to release a combination of hormones dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins. All three are feel-good neurotransmitters responsible for feeling of happiness and pleasure.

Also Check : Role Of Serotonin In Mental Well-being

Do you know gratitude is a great aid to overcome guilt and regret?

Let’s check it out.

In this up and down of life, we need to make various choices. Sometimes our decision give fruitful results while some choices didn’t come out as we planned. At this time, experiencing guilt about our choices is normal human emotion. 

Although we have one thing in life that makes us to feel guilty, there are several other we should appreciate. Instead of getting consume on negative self-talk of guilt and regret, we must value things that we have. 

We should feel grateful for all wonderful things that we already have. We should be grateful for the good act people are doing for us. It is a time to do something good for the people who are always helpful to us in different ways. Although it’s difficult to overcome past feelings of guilt but cultivating gratitude will be helpful in reducing emotional pain and discomfort. 

Gratitude is a great help to overcome fear & worry. 

A human mind cannot be fearful and grateful at the same time. When gratitude appears, fear disappear.

Human mind is habitual to focus only on negative happenings in the surrounding. When a continuous stream of negative thoughts hijacks our mind, our brain initiates a heighten stress-response in the form of fear, anxiety and worry. 

At this state, gratitude play significant role by diverting our mind from negative to positive side of the world. 

We should be grateful for at least one family member who always listen and trust us. We should be thankful for at least one friend who always stands behind us in every troublesome situation. We should be thankful for being fulfilling basic necessities of life like food, shelter and clothing. 

This means positive things are still going on in our surrounding. Hope for better future is always there and therefore, there is no need to worry.

Also Check : Transforming Anxiety Into Hope

Scientifically, gratitude has a positive association with mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. It helps to reduce the intensity of psychological disturbances experienced in the form of irritation, frustration or sadness.

Gratitude is good for our physical health too.

Mental health has a strong impact on physical health of a person. When we are mentally strong, our mind could focus more on physical aspects of health such as exercise, healthy eating and good sleep. As mentioned above, gratitude results in more positive outlook towards life and improves our mindset. 

With a refreshed mindset, it is easy to get inspire for practicing healthy habits that improves our physical health. 

Practicing gratitude has a beneficial impact in improving heart health, immunity level and sleep pattern.

Gratitude improves our relationship.

Saying “thank you” or sweet handwritten message expressing our gratitude could make wonderful difference in our relationship. When we go through problems, our mind literally gets stuck imposing bad impact on social, cultural, familial and professional relationships. The act of gratitude increases feeling of belonging and make us more generous and compassionate. 

Society always respect a person who is kind, forgiving and supportive in nature. Thus, caring nature cultivated with act of gratitude is beneficial in strengthening relationship.

When we practice intentional gratitude, our mind is just thinking about present moment. Our mind is neither recalling memories of past traumatic events or not anticipating worth-case scenario of future. We are just concentrating on the current moment that is fulfilled with so many positive things.

A regular practice of gratitude increases feelings of happiness and positivity. It foster hope for the future and improve emotional regulation. Gratitude helps us to change our outlook to see the world and build a positive frame of mind.

No matter how tough life is, there is always something you should be grateful for. It may be your family, friends, home, good food, sunshine, nature or job.

So next time whenever you feel sad, just start to count your blessings and let the wonders of positivity happens.

Disclaimer 

Mediclin Brain Health’s content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.