What Do Practicing Gratitude and Exercising Have in Common?

I’ve been doing some reading lately about practicing gratitude. I found the benefits closely mimic one of my go-to self care options: exercise.

Benefits of Exercise

Exercise has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. It produces changes in the parts of the brain that regulate stress and anxiety. It can also increase brain sensitivity for the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which relieve feelings of depression.

Additionally, exercise can increase the production of endorphins, which are known to help produce positive feelings. (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-exercise)

Benefits of Gratitude

Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression. (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201504/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-gratitude)

While I exercise to reap those benefits, I started out on my gratitude journey because I believe it’s the right thing to do. These benefits are just an added bonus.

My newest book on gratitude arrived yesterday. It’s about instilling gratitude in children. I’m excited to learn about this topic. I’m sure I’ll be sharing what I’ve learned with you in the weeks ahead.

As always, thanks for your support of The MRP Project. Together we’re providing hope through social support.

Update

One bag will go out this week to a mother who lost her husband. And we’re closing in on a milestone. Our 50^th bag will go out soon!