Musikgarten Blog: The Science of Gratitude
Last Thanksgiving season, we considered different ways that teachers and children’s music studio owners can teach thankfulness in the classroom. Since then, more and more scientific studies have been conducted to explore exactly how gratitude works with the chemistry of mind and body. While harder to measure, the practice of gratitude and its spiritual benefits have been taught by major religions across the globe. The benefits of gratitude are numerous and affect emotional and social well-being, personality, career, and health.
Just a Few of the Many Benefits of Gratitude
Scientific studies have shown us that realizing, practicing, and demonstrating gratitude…
- Makes us happier – Noticing what we already have makes us feel positive about our lives.
- Increases our psychological well-being and self-esteem – It enhances our positive emotions and discourages suicidal tendencies in depressed and stressed individuals.
- Makes us more likable and expands social connections – Gratitude improves our romantic relationships, improves our friendships, and increases our social support network.