An Attitude of Gratitude

Written By Lois Ingber

Did you know that practicing gratitude can change your brain and also help you become healthier? Research has shown that feeling grateful releases dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain that help enhance mood. They also help calm the nervous system, promote better sleep, and boost immunity, among other things: https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-gratitude/

So, what is gratitude? The word is from the Greek ‘gratus’ meaning thankful or pleasing. It is described as a trait, a mood, an emotion or an attitude, which Maya Angelou expresses this way: “Be present in all things, and thankful for all things.” It is, of course, easier to be present and feel grateful when things are going well, and harder when they’re not. However, if we follow Maya Angelou’s advice, thinking of people and things to be grateful for in these moments can bring the encouragement, compassion and kindness needed to help us stay focused, cope and move forward.

This article describes some simple activities for practicing gratitude that you can do yourself or as a family: https://www.mindful.org/how-to-practice-gratitude/

Challenge: Think of three people or things you are grateful for. Next, think of three reasons for each of why you are grateful for them. How do feel after this practice?

Lois Ingber

LOIS INGBER, Behavioral Counselor, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Positive Discipline Lead Trainer.  Lois holds a Bachelor Degree in Sociology from UCLA and a Masters in Social Work degree from SDSU where her focus area was Children, Youth, and Families.  Lois has worked in social service, private practice, hospital, clinic, and school settings, most recently for seventeen years at Rady Children’s Outpatient Psychiatry providing school-based counseling services.  Lois was a Community Montessori and Dehesa parent prior to joining the staff in 2016 and brings this perspective to her role.   Lois is responsible for providing education, collaboration, and support implementing the Positive Discipline model and social/emotional competencies in the Learning Center and home learning environments, in line with Element’s philosophy of self-directed learning and the development of mastery, autonomy, and purpose for students and the adults who serve as their guides.

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