Gratitude

River + Michele discuss the topic of gratitude, but not in the way you are thinking. Yes, having gratitude can help with emotional regulation and dysregulation: 

 

• Brain function

  Gratitude can activate the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for emotional regulation, decision-making, and empathy. 

   
• Balanced perspective

  Taking time to find things to be grateful for can help balance a negative perception and improve mental health. 

   
• Coping with stress

  Gratitude can help people cope with stressful, negative, and frustrating situations. 

   
• Improved mental health

  Gratitude can lead to: 

   

  • Better mental health 
     
  • Fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression 
     
  • Increased happiness 
     
  • Improved satisfaction with life 
     
• Improved physical health

  Gratitude can lead to improved physical health. 

   

To practice gratitude, you can:

• Think of things you're thankful for, like family, friends, your home, or a sunny day
• Write down or say aloud what you're thankful for
• Celebrate small victories 
   

However, gratitude can become toxic if it's used to repress or deny negative emotions. To avoid this, you can:

• Allow yourself to feel all of your emotions, including negative ones
• Don't force gratitude when you're feeling upset
• Focus on your physical sensations

We hope you enjoyed this episode. 

Lotsa love, 

Michele + River