The Secret to Unlocking Long-Term Happiness and Peace

Expressing gratitude changes biology. Studies have shown that feeling thankful releases hormones and improves mood and attitude. Gratitude can even help with stress and depression.  

A behavior that can change your biology? 

In an article published by the Mayo Clinic, research shows that behavior can change biology, especially if a person expresses gratitude. By expressing gratitude, a hormone called oxytocin (also known as the love hormone) is released in the brain to promote happy feelings. This helps people to connect with each other, which leads to more happiness and peace.   

A behavior that can lessen stress and improve depression symptoms? 

There are a few ways to improve stress and lessen depression symptoms. According to a study by J Occup Health, writing down events that occurred at work or in one's personal life regularly can lessen stress and improve depression symptoms (J Occup Health, 2021). Expressing gratitude during daily activities, such as in the workplace, in the home, or in public spaces outside, can help to better regulate emotions. Making gratitude lists and reflections have positive effects on mental health and overall well‐being.  

A behavior that, when tracked, can help with my sadness? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, Amanda Logan C.N.P. noted that when a person takes the time to write down and express the blessings they are grateful for daily, there is a lessening of the neurons trying to feel sadness (Logan, 2022). There are so many things in this world to be grateful for, however a lot of human brain power goes towards focusing on the hardships of life. When even 25% of that brain power is shifted to focus on the many things to be grateful for, the happy endorphins, a chemical in the brain that increase the feelings of satisfaction, can be released. This release makes it easier to feel happy and harder to feel sad. When people are more satisfied in their work life and personal life, they are going to feel happier.  

Having an attitude of gratitude 

Research shows the importance of adopting an attitude of gratitude, which can lead to increased happiness and a positive impact on those around us. Expressing gratitude through small actions can uplift others and promote personal happiness. Pause, take a deep breath, and acknowledge the blessings you have. Try to create a list of all the people, places, and things that enrich your life, and meditate on your appreciation for each of them. As you practice this, you'll realize how much you have in your life. Embrace your blessings and let go of trivial distractions. During this season of thanksgiving, try to focus on having an attitude of gratitude. 

References  

CNP, A. L. (2022, December 6). Can expressing gratitude improve your mental, physical health? Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/can-expressing-gratitude-improve-health 

Harvard Health. (2021, August 14). Giving thanks can make you happier. https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier 

Komase, Y., Watanabe, K., Hori, D., Nozawa, K., Hidaka, Y., Iida, M., Imamura, K., & Kawakami, N. (2021). Effects of gratitude intervention on mental health and well‐being among workers: A systematic review. Journal of Occupational Health, 63(1). https://doi.org/10.1002/1348-9585.12290