The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

HAVING an attitude of gratitude can do the body just as much good as engaging in consistent physical activity, according to a local psychologist.

Studies have shown that people who practice gratitude consistently have stronger immune systems decreased levels of stress, frustration and negative emotions.

According to Bahamian psychologist Kirkland Pratt, cultivating an attitude of thankfulness can promote overall mental, emotional health and can set the tone for one’s life experiences.

“What is true about gratitude, which is closely linked to thankfulness, is it works part in parcel to everything you walk into. This is a metaphysical consideration though. But what is true is that there is a particular karma around gratitude,” he said.

“Metaphysics teaches that when you create an attitude of gratitude you actually set up what it is the you walk into. When something has been extended to us we capture how we feel at that moment because we are really happy about it. So when you encapsulate that and make it part of your mindset metaphysics teaches that the universe will continue to provide you with that and whatever is necessary for you to emanate that same feeling. So once you maintain that state of mind and that being, then the universe automatically give you back things to be grateful.”

While having a thankful attitude can open the doors for positive experiences, the physiological impact is also far-reaching as “thankfulness and good health go hand in hand”, he said.

“I think for the purpose of discussing it from a medical aspect it is impossible to be thankful or feel a sense of gratitude and not have that accompanied with the feeling of calmness and judgment. When you have a manifestation going on in your own cognition your brain releases what is almost like the gravy on a good piece of steak. Your brain releases feel good chemicals throughout the body,” Mr Pratt told Tribune Health.

“The feel-good chemicals that the body releases are called endorphins. Endorphins trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. Endorphins are responsible for the boost in a person’s immune system boost and their positive emotional state. Most people when they feel good, they put their hands over their hearts, shrug their shoulders when they are really happy about something or they throw up their hands up. This behaviour is not learned; It is a response to the good feeling that is going on inside their body.”

While practicing thankfulness may not be a cure all, he added, the benefits are undeniable, “and it does not hurt for people to make an effort each day to live a more grateful life,” Mr Pratt said.