impulse to express that feeling.” ~ Henry Van Dyke
Today’s Act of Kindness: Create a list of things you are grateful for and share it over dinner or a video call. You might also consider creating a gratitude jar that everyone in your household can add to each night for the next five days to be read on New Year’s Eve.
Reflecting on what you already have in your life as a way to stay present is often the focus of most gratitude practices. There is value in the practice of placing your attention where you want it. There is also value in recognizing the beautiful life that is right there in front of you.
What if the benefits of a practice ran deeper than that?
According to current scientific literature through peer reviewed studies, practicing gratitude has tremendous positive effects on mental and physical health. The means to these effects may surprise you.
Certain key elements to scientifically supported protocols include the need for story (narrative) and the importance of receiving or perceiving gratitude rather than giving it. Interesting, isn’t it? Have a listen to the Huberman Lab Podcast (one of my favourite podcasts right now) to learn more and to learn how to build a highly effective practice.
