Gratitude
Did you know that practicing gratitude changes the wiring of the brain?
The more we appreciate what we already have in our life, boosts our physical and emotional health, and simultaneously changes the gray thinking matter. This intentional act of giving thanks activates a part in the brain that is responsible for making us feel good. The more we practice feeling good, the more our brain asks for it. It becomes like a vicious cycle and we end up building a more content, positive and abundant life. So what are you grateful for today?
I am grateful for my breath, I am grateful for food in my fridge and I am immensely grateful for this moment of pause that came in with the pandemic. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
“The practice of gratitude increases your dopamine production which encourages your brain to seek our more of the same. It’s the brain saying, ‘Oh, do that again’ which means the more you are grateful for, the more you will find to be grateful for. Some say ‘what you appreciate, appreciates’. On a scientific level, this is an example of Hebb’s Law, which states ‘neurons that fire together wire together’.” - Carrie D. Clarke
Happiness
Did you know that being happy does wonders for us?
Yes, it does. When we are happy, we are healthier, we do better at school and at our jobs, we are more likely to help other people and we even make friends easily, did you know about it? So, now think for a minute what does really make you happy?
Nature makes me happy, journaling makes me happy and the fresh smell of brewing coffee early in the morning puts a smile on my face.
We would love to hear from you, what things make you happy? Drop us a line at [email protected] because YOU do matter to US.
Kindness - The power of kindness - Make every day a Kindness Day
Did you know that being kind to others has a major effect on our brain, wiring it to happiness and positively?
Yes it does. It kind of tricks the brain, making it feel like it has received a magnificent gift OR, even better, the feeling can be compared to when we eat our favorite food. Can you imagine that? You do one kind deed and your brain makes you feel like you have just eaten a two flavored ice cream with whipped cream and crunchy nuts on top! Wow, amazing isn't? My good deed of the day was grocery shopping for my neighbor, who is an elderly person and cannot leave the house these days. Tell me about yours, we would love to hear from you.
Do you know that Mawlana Hazar Imam is constantly speaking about being kind to others, about generosity and giving back to the communities where we live, isn't it? So, today, we would like to know from you what have you done that was kind, generous and giving.
Laughter
Did you know when we laugh our brain wires differently, because it produces endorphins, which acts as pain killers? So, tell me: what made you smile or laugh today?
Benefits of a laugh:
- Overall, there are improvements in positive emoticons;
- Anxiety and stress levels diminishes;
- Change in well-being and energy level;
- Improves physical health and strengthen immune system.
Article written by Karima Juma, parent educator and member of the Aga Khan Education Board
The Aga Khan Education Board invites you to share questions, comments, ideas or proposals on topics to be addressed through the address [email protected]
