Here's something interesting to ponder: Research by experts in the field of neuroscience reveal that our behavior can act as a catalyst for various neurotransmitters that manage emotions, overall mindset, and how we respond to stress. One behavior in particular is worth noting since putting it into practice triggers the release of the wellness hormones dopamine and serotonin, and reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. What behavior, exactly? Gratitude. A consistent gratitude practice can set in motion the rewiring of the neural pathways between your endocrine and nervous systems running through the main connecting point that is your body's smart control coordinating center - the hypothalamus. This small gland located at the base of your brain acts to keep your body in a healthful, balanced state called homeostasis by regulating key functions such as hormone levels, metabolism, emotions, blood pressure and heart rate, and sleep cycle. Think of how helpful this can be. Triggering production of the wellness hormones (dopamine, serotonin, and perhaps oxytocin - the social bonding hormone) and stifling cortisol (the stress hormone) works in tandem to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enable deeper, more restful sleep. And some studies indicate that at the neuro-chemical level, feelings of gratitude are associated with an increase in the modulation of the prefrontal cortex, the brain site responsible for managing negative emotions like guilt and shame. All of this can have a bundled and even cascading effect on so much about our day-to-day experience. But there's another fascinating and even surprising twist in these research findings It seems to be the case that the most significant hormonal responses are triggered when receiving gratitude or observing someone else receiving it. Think about the implications here. One of the best things you can do to promote the well-being of yourself and those in your life is to live in such a way that you are positioned to receive gratitude. That means you have done or said something of value to another, which is a legitimate blessing for them that is then turned back into your own blessedness. Making it your goal and then taking measures to live in such a way that makes for peace, promotes the general welfare, cultivates goodwill, and includes the willingness to make some sacrifices for others results in those you encounter being glad you're in their life. There will be gratitude and not only will you experience those good vibes that are bio-chemically traceable, but you'll also enable others to see it and bring them in on the action. You are legitimately helping, building up, and encouraging another who may turn that back on you in the form of an expression of gratitude that facilitates your well-being. And anyone witnessing it gets in on the action as well. That's a win-win-win! So make it your aim to set out each day with the mindset that whoever you come across will feel even slightly better, happier, encouraged, and more at peace having encountered you than before you crossed paths in that moment. They'll be thankful, might even express it, and you'll have a nice uptick in those wellness hormones. And anyone who happens to witness it will benefit as well. We can do that, can't we? Just think how much better things would be if our entire community bought into this. You first. Start a gratitude revolution that results in a cascade of wellness hormones that envelops your city. It can begin changing the entire landscape one "Thank you" at a time. 

Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." 

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Attribution: 

"Shinrin Yoku" by Lemongrass. 

https://lemongrass.bandcamp.com/