So I’ve been writing about wellness for 19 weeks straight; feeling like I’ve hit a milestone. I’m most fascinated by the measured improved health benefits that have come along with a 7-dimension wellness focus. After a routine doctors visit last week in which we discussed the results of my latest physical and labs, her words continue to ring in my ears “Dr. Davis please tell me so I can help my other patients, what… is… working?“. This journey is tedious, and requires focus but the benefits are well worth it. There will be a blog post dedicated to results late summer, which I truly could not have imagined last Dec.
At any rate, todays topic was inspired by Robin Roberts latest book (to which the quote in the title is credited), Brighter by the Day. I’m a fan of Ms. Roberts as her energy and light shines immensely. I’ve read several of her past books, and knew this one would make my TBR.
The act of gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness. It may seem uncomfortable applying these words to yourself, but that’s exactly what you do when take a moment to reflect upon the blessings in your life as well as others.
There are measurable benefits from incorporating daily or even occasional gratitude practices in your life. According to Najma Khorrami in Psychology Today, gratitude lowers stress hormones in the body. A sudden stressful event or circumstances arise, the body responds naturally by releasing adrenaline and cortisol. Cortisol is responsible for increases of glucose in the bloodstream to facilitate activity in the brain and repair of tissues. When stress persists and turns into chronic stress, cortisol and other hormones are active routinely. Ms. Khorrami continues the article by saying gratitude can lower cortisol levels in our body by 23%. All stress can’t be avoided, therefore it’s imperative you incorporate healthy coping strategies to actively combat stress rising.
So as usual, I tried it out. In February I joined the Incowrimo challenge. InCoWriMo is the short name for International Correspondence Writing Month. I challenged myself to write 18 letters to friends, family members, even people who have touched my life in some shape or form. Yes, all 18 were mailed, some of little bits of goodness I thought they may like, or a quote that sums up our relationship. Although each letter was personalized and required the nightly time to write them, what I received back was so much more. I got messages, and return letters, even some teary calls that proclaimed each letter arrived at a time that individual needed to hear it. What they didn’t know, is that I needed that nod from them. Let’s just say Feb was a very emotionally healthy month!!
In closing, I challenge you to not only consider the typical “ gratitude journal” but try small acts of gratitude and kindness as well. I promise this exercise of spiritual wellness won’t disappoint.
Peace,
J
References:Gratitude Helps Minimize Feelings of Stress;Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude;13 Most Popular Gratitude Exercises & Activities