Hey there!
Oh my gosh — can you believe it’s already November? This is the perfect time to slow down, breathe, and talk about something that can literally change your brain: gratitude.
If you know me, you know how much I geek out about brain health (I’m a student of Dr. Daniel Amen, so I’m always thinking about how our brains affect everything). And one of the easiest, most beautiful ways to boost your brain is by practicing gratitude.
Gratitude Is More Than a Good Vibe
Gratitude isn’t just about manners or being polite. When you focus on what’s good, your brain chemistry actually shifts!
You start releasing more dopamine and serotonin — the “feel-good” messengers that boost happiness, focus, and motivation.
Your prefrontal cortex (the part of your brain that helps you plan, make good decisions, and keep calm) lights up, while your stress centers start to chill out.
Seriously — gratitude helps your brain stop spiraling and start thriving.
When We Forget to Be Grateful…
Let’s be real — life gets loud. Deadlines, traffic, family chaos, the holidays coming up — it’s a lot!
When stress takes over, our limbic system (especially the amygdala) goes into overdrive. That’s the part of the brain that constantly scans for danger.
If we don’t balance that with something positive, we can end up anxious, cranky, or just mentally tired.
Gratitude is like a reset button. It reminds your brain, “Hey, we’re safe. We’re okay. There’s good stuff here too.”
Simple Gratitude Habits That Boost Your Brain
The “3 Good Things” Habit
Every night, jot down three things that went right today. Big or small — it all counts. You’re training your brain to focus on what’s working instead of what’s wrong.
Take a Gratitude Walk
Get outside, move your body, and think about what you’re thankful for. Movement boosts blood flow to your brain, and pairing it with gratitude doubles the benefit.
Visualize a Thank-You
Close your eyes and picture someone who’s helped you. Imagine saying thank you — and notice how your heart softens. That’s your brain shifting into empathy and joy mode.
Final Thoughts
Gratitude isn’t fluffy — it’s neuroscience with heart. It calms your stress response, sharpens your focus, and makes you more resilient.
As Dr. Amen says, “When your brain works right, you work right.”
So this month, let’s make gratitude a brain habit.
Every time you notice something good — even a tiny thing — say, “Oh my gosh, that’s fantastic!” and let yourself really feel it.
Inspired by the research and teachings of Dr. Daniel Amen and the Amen Clinics. Check them out at AmenClinics.com for more brain health goodness.
