#MentalHealthMonday - Your Brain on Gratitude
Hello and welcome to another Mental Health Monday. Today we're diving into one of the simplest, most transformative practices: gratitude. Now, gratitude isn't just saying thank you. It's a rewiring tool for your brain. And when you understand the science of gratitude, you'll see why it's one of the most powerful daily practices you can do.
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When I was starring in 42nd Street, I thought I had everything I wanted — but there were nights I still felt empty. I wasn't the original, I didn't have a Tony Nomination, I wasn't getting ahead. It was exhausting. But soon after 9/11, I began the practice of gratitude and writing down 3 things every day I was grateful for — and getting out of my own ambitious head. A call from my sister, a quiet moment with tea, laughter and dancing to music in the dressing room. I started not looking at what I didn't have (cause you will ALWAYS find something) And slowly, I looked at what I HAD and my perspective shifted. Gratitude didn't erase stress, but it gave me a new lens. Instead of focusing on what I lacked, I started noticing what was already beautiful.
Science:
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Gratitude releases dopamine and serotonin, the "feel-good" chemicals.
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It strengthens the prefrontal cortex, improving focus, decision-making, and positivity bias.
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Gratitude interrupts the brain's negativity bias — the tendency to fixate on what's wrong.
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Studies show consistent gratitude practice improves sleep, mood, and even immune function.
Action Tools:
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Gratitude Journal: Write three things daily — but feel them, don't just list them.
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Gratitude Reframe: In challenges, ask: "What's one thing I can appreciate right now?"
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Gratitude Letter: Write to someone you've never thanked. This creates lasting positive effects for both of you.
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Gratitude Anchor: Pick a daily cue (like brushing your teeth) and pair it with thinking of one thing you're grateful for.
Gratitude isn't just a nice idea. It's neuroscience. Every time you practice it, you are strengthening your brain's pathways for joy, resilience, and connection. So tonight, before bed, write down three things you're grateful for. And feel the shift. Because gratitude doesn't just change your day. It changes your brain. And when your brain changes, your whole life changes.
