A Token of My Appreciation

When I stop and think about all the wondrous people and experiences, I have had thus far on the journey called life , I become slightly giddy and am often awed. How do I sustain this joyous appreciation? At Present it is through the practice of gratitude.

A sense of deep gratitude connects me to a childlike innocence when I stop, breathe and witness the many wondrous things I experience daily. Why do we enjoy the sensual, calm energy that appreciation brings? Because that choice actually resets our brain chemistry and improves our overall experience of life. Studies have shown that expressing gratitude improves our sense of happiness and physical well-being.

How?

By stimulating our brain’s production of four major chemicals referred toas DOSE: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonins and Endorphins.These neurotransmitters influence our ability to experience happiness. To be more specific:

Dopamine stokes anticipation rather than feelings of “happiness”. It is the excitement you feel when thinking of a loved one or when hearing the text notification sound ding on your phone. Oxytocin is released through proximity and can be triggered through cuddling,as well as the social bonding cues of eye contact and attentiveness. This chemical encourages us to “tend and befriend”.  Serotonin influences your greater mood overall. If you’re in a good mood,you’ve got serotonin to thank. Eighty percent of serotonin exists in the gutand is governed by your state of hunger. Therefore, you get a bit grumpy if you miss a meal.

Endorphins are responsible for masking pain or discomfort, by helping you“power through.”. This allows us to survive past hurt or harm until we can be cared for properly.

Another Word for gratitude is appreciation 

Appreciation, as defined by Webster’s Dictionary is “a feeling or expression of admiration,approval, or gratitude”. It is a recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something, or a fuller understanding of the situation. A fuller understanding might occur when you forgive those who have harmed you once you discern the valuable life lesson of processing the negativity you once experienced. When Seen in terms of an asset, appreciation indicates an increase in value overtime. It indicates a type of growth in the physical world. Focusing on what we are thankful for promotes our growth beyond petty grievances and base desires. It Focuses our attention on what is most precious, reminding us gently that we maybe much better off than we give ourselves credit for.

Appreciation is how we grow in many ways, all at once

Through remembering and appreciating the goodness already in our world we grow as a person, in stature and standing - as a sweet soul navigating this funky planet during the 21st century. Not an easy task with so much information flooding our senses, minds and hearts.

Appreciation of self and others can take great courage.

Some people mistake kindness for weakness or appreciation for vulnerability.Those folks are more interested in looking good and proving they are smart thanin celebrating the good work of those around them. It is much harder to sell stuff to a person who is happy and satisfied. Those who possess true confidence and humbly own that they are brave, capable and lovable tend to be generous in their ability to acknowledge the contributions of those around them. True power need not prove or abuse itself. It can afford to be as gentle as the dew on arose petal.

Now it’s your turn

Take a minute and jot down three things you really appreciate about yourself and a then a good friend. For example, mine might be kindhearted, honest, genuine.

Next, write down something you can appreciate about someone or something who irritates you. Mine might be, they strengthen my compassion for bullies and insecure types, are an excellent example of what not to do, reinforce my commitment to seek mutual benefit and consideration in my closest relationships and so on. Be imaginative and creative. You can find something to appreciate about everything and anyone if you take time to consider it. If all else fails,resort to their being your best teacher of uncomfortable yet valuable life lessons or they are a beloved child to their parents.

When the time is right, and the opportunity presents itself, feel free to genuinely acknowledge these same irritating people who surround you. Focusing On their best qualities magically draws them out and empowers your authentic presence.

The benefits of practicing what is called an attitude of gratitude are extensive from stress reduction to more varied forms of problem solving. The lifehack I strongly suggest to friends and clients is to celebrate all the people around you in ways that are sincere and uplifting to you and them. It does take practice but will ultimately create a fabric of goodwill that makes the world a better place. Choosing to be kind to a colleague, friend or neighbor when they are having a rough moment can make a huge difference in their life. Eventually people forget that they ignored your first five kindhearted attempts to be friendly or cooperative. Trust takes time.

Try it and let us know how it goes

To learn more in-depth ways to improve your mood and replenish your mind order your copy of Kindling the Flame.