Neuroscience Reveals How Gratitude Literally Rewires Your Brain To Be Happier

Being grateful brings positivity in one’s life. in fact, scientists have now proven that gratitude can literally transform your brain. For example, when you say “thank you”, and you really feel it, you’ll be much happier and healthier, according to neuroscientists.

Expressing gratitude actually changes the molecular structure of the brain, thus affects the nervous system and brings positivity and peace.

Improves physical health

Expressing gratitude at higher levels promotes sleep, and also lower levels of anxiety and depression. Moreover, it reduces your inflammation, boosts your mood, lowers your risk of heart failure and “beats” your fatigue.

Gratitude and your brain

A neurological experiment led by researchers at the University of California we’re measuring the brain activity by using magnetic resonance. The participants were given gifts in order to provoke a feeling of gratitude.

The areas of the brain were giving much better motions in the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. Thus, led to the conclusion that the emotion of gratitude promotes a positive and supportive approach towards other people and releases stress.

Moreover, gratitude activates the hypothalamus, which impacts on metabolism, distinct behaviors, and stress. Placed at the base of the brain, its main function is to regulate hormones responsible for body temperature, appetite, sleep, emotional response, and other survival functions. Additionally, it affects dopamine a pleasure hormone.

In other words, gratitude gives you a sensation of self-worth and compassion for people around you.

Here are 3 steps on how to become more grateful:

In terms of hardship and stress, it might be really difficult to become grateful. But if you really think about it, we all have reasons to express gratitude. Here are three practical steps you can catch:

  • Keep a journal daily, and write down at least three things that make you feel grateful. Do it before you go to bed.
  • Every morning, while brushing your teeth, think of all the things that make you a good person.
  • Every day, tell your friend or partner the things you appreciate about them.

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