Written by: Melissa Enoch, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness or gratefulness. Grace is defined as both simple elegance or refinement of movement, but it is also defined as courteous goodwill. As Christians, Grace is the basis for the Christian faith as the belief is that God offers us undeserved favor, freely give without having to be earned. Even if an individual is not Christian, the concept of graciousness which is defined as the quality of being kind, polite, and generous, can be displayed by all. Gratefulness is explained as the feeling of appreciation for the kindness displayed by someone else.
During the month of November, Thanksgiving is a time where we celebrate the various aspects of life that we are thankful for; however for the next few months, many also struggle with feelings of sadness and depression. In an effort to get ahead of Seasonal Affective Disorder [SAD], I have taken some interventions utilized to assist individuals who struggle with various mental health disorders, such as Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and presented several scriptures in a prayer journal that can be utilized as a way to express gratitude.
Studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity. Scientific effects of gratitude bring forth positive experiences and reduce stress-inducing hormones while increasing “feel-good” ones. See here. In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. See here.
Some examples of ways to express gratitude can include but are not limited to:
Write a Thank you note
Thank someone mentally
Count Your Blessings
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Melissa Enoch, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Melissa Enoch is Owner/CEO/Director of Trinity Counseling Services LLC, a private substance abuse and mental health facility located in Burlington and Charlotte, where she uses her twenty-eight years of experience to educate individuals about various mental health and substance use disorder topics. Melissa is also the founder of Women of Strength, a non-profit educational organization focused on women's networking and community awareness. In her spare time, Melissa is interested in making jewelry, shooting photography, and mentoring young professionals.
