Jolly hearts

Guess what? The writer program by Makhosi Wellness is back and as usual, we start each week with an educational piece, because today is? ________

Yes, you guessed it right!

I know we were supposed to finish up with Early Maladaptive Schemas, but the good thing is, we will, we have relaunched our website @makhosiwellness and there you can find other articles that do not revolve around the weekly themes. So, our LinkedIn page will be specifically left for the writers' program ???

Exciting news, I am sure. Without further delay, let us hope into this week`s topic, gratitude.

Let us face it, as human beings,it is often easier to complain about everything around us rather than appreciate what we have. In a world filled with constant demands, expectations, and comparisons, gratitude often tends to take a backseat. It seems to be a human tendency to be more inclined to complain rather than to express gratitude. But, would you believe me if I told you that it is not your fault, but all a matter of how our brains are wired?

Various psychological studies have shown that humans tend to focus on complaints rather than gratitude since our brains are wired to pay more attention to negative experiences. This has indefinitely led to the development of the negativity bias. This bias leads us to magnify negative events and overlook positive ones, making it easier to complain rather than appreciate.

Phew, I am guessing that was a sigh of relief to know that it is automation from the brain. I know, I also thought that it was a blessing at first, I mean, it is not my fault that I am more inclined to complain rather than be grateful.

Or so I thought, as time went by I slowly began to realize that this is more of a challenge. Changing the normal pathways taken by the brain is difficult but not impossible. So, what did I do to be more grateful? But before we learn what I did, let us first understand what is this gratitude I speak of.

Gratitude, in its simplest form,?is the act of acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives. It is about recognizing the good things we have been blessed with, both big and small, and feeling a deep sense of thankfulness for them.?Gratitude researchers such as Robert Emmons, conducted numerous studies that consistently demonstrated the positive impact of gratitude on well-being. His research found that individuals who actively practiced gratitude reported higher levels of happiness, stronger social connections, and greater psychological and physical health.

Now, that we know what it is, let us understand how to cultivate it. I do, however, have to issue a warning, gratitude requires a little something called self-discipline and I personally still struggle with it, but like anything else in life, we take it a step at a time.

So, how can we cultivate gratitude?

a) Keeping a gratitude Journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you are grateful for. This practice helps to train your mind to focus on the positive aspects of your life and increases your awareness of the abundance surrounding you.

b) Practicing mindful Appreciation: Engage in moments of mindfulness by intentionally savoring the present moment and being fully present. Pay attention to the beauty in nature, the warmth of a smile, or the taste of a delicious meal. Mindful appreciation allows you to cultivate gratitude in the ordinary moments of life.

c) Constant expression of Gratitude: Make it a habit to express your gratitude to others. A simple "thank you" or a heartfelt note can go a long way in strengthening relationships and spreading positivity. By acknowledging the kindness and support you receive, you not only uplift others but also enhance your sense of gratitude.

If there is one thing I am grateful for, is finally being able to relaunch this program, I had been postponing and telling myself, we will re-launch next week, but the truth was, parts of me was scared that people would not want to take part in it.

I chose to have a leap of faith and well, here I am. I am very excited, hopeful, and looking forward to reading your poems, articles, and stories about what you are grateful for. I also have a story I will share, but I will use the name "anonymous" by now, if you know my writing style, you will be able to tell that is me pouring out my heart, ????????