Gratitude as a balance for my "survival radar for bad shite"

As I approach my 52nd year of life, I find myself reflecting on the countless experiences and lessons that have shaped my journey as a dad, a music therapist, and the managing director of Chroma . Amidst life's twists and turns, two significant aspects have been instrumental in sustaining my positivity and resilience: acknowledging the small joys and positives in life and appreciating my generally good health, particularly following a bike crash in September this year. I’m sharing my perspective on the profound impact of gratitude and how it helps me keep my "survival radar for bad shite" at bay, which is a non-technical way of describing our in-built fight/flight/freeze system that has kept us safe from sabre-tooth tigers and the like for thousands of years in our pre-historic lives.

Living in the United Kingdom, a country with its fair share of challenges, it's easy to become consumed by the problems that surround us. However, taking a step back to acknowledge the fundamental blessings we enjoy is a practice I've found to be transformative. Despite its imperfections, the UK remains a place where we are fortunate to have access to safety, prosperity, and freedom. I say this from my POV as a white middle-class hetero-romantic bisexual male acknowledging struggles that people in the UK face daily. However, in every life gratitude for whatever privileges and perspectives we have has the power to shift our sense of self and foster resilience. I am also aware that it may not be seen as morally “right” to think about things such as gratitude when horrific events continue in Gaza, Ukraine and other countries. I totally struggle with gratitude for my life's joys when there is a genocide happening in Gaza, and in Ukraine and other countries there are senseless wars and unimaginable suffering created. But I think we owe it to ourselves to be grateful nonetheless for what we have in our own lives.

Research has consistently shown that gratitude is linked to improved mental health and overall well-being. A study published in the journal "Psychological Science" found that individuals who regularly expressed gratitude reported greater life satisfaction and reduced symptoms of depression (Lambert et al., 2010). This connection resonates with my own experiences, as I've discovered that by focusing on the positives in our lives, we can better navigate the complexities and challenges that come our way.

?

Another aspect of life that I've learned to appreciate more deeply is physical health. In September of this year, I experienced a bike crash that served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life. While I faced minor physical and brain-related injuries which after a period of recovery have fully healed, this incident also reinforced my gratitude for the gift of health and well-being. Research underscores the positive relationship between gratitude for one's health and overall well-being (Sansone et al., 2010). This aligns with my own experiences, as I've found that cultivating gratitude helps me maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity.

?

Acknowledging what I'm grateful for on a daily basis has become a cornerstone of my mental well-being. Research published in the "Journal of Personality and Social Psychology" suggests that practicing gratitude can lead to improved mental health and enhanced resilience (Emmons & McCullough, 2003). This aligns with my own experiences, as I've found that cultivating gratitude helps me maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. Even walking to the shops this morning at 7am to grab milk for the kid’s breakfast (I’m still not allowed to drive following my bike crash – DVLA rules!), I was aware of the fresh air, the bounciness of my new trainers, and the sound of soft rain on my hood; being aware of these little things improved my mood as I walked quickly there and back!

?

As a dad, I've witnessed the power of gratitude in my family's life as well. Encouraging my children to express gratitude for the small joys and privileges they enjoy has nurtured their emotional resilience and enhanced our family's bond. In my role as a dad, a music therapist, and the managing director of Chroma, I've come to appreciate the profound impact of gratitude on our lives. The research cited here underscores the importance of acknowledging the small joys and positives, whether in our relatively and mostly safe, rich, and free country or in the gift of good health.

?

As I embrace gratitude on a daily basis, it not only keeps my "survival radar for bad shite" at bay but also enhances my resilience and mental well-being. It's a reminder that, even in the face of challenges, there is much to be thankful for. As I continue my journey through middle age, I carry with me the wisdom that gratitude is a powerful tool for navigating life's complexities and savouring its many joys.

?

References:

1. Lambert, N. M., Fincham, F. D., & Stillman, T. F. (2010). Gratitude and depressive symptoms: The role of positive reframing and positive emotion. Psychological Science, 21(12), 1762-1769.

2. Sansone RA, Sansone LA. Gratitude and well being: the benefits of appreciation. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010 Nov;7(11):18-22. PMID: 21191529; PMCID: PMC3010965.

3. Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: Experimental studies of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377-389.