Day 8 - Gratitude Benefits Mind and Body “There is no prescription for finding moments of gratitude in every day; there is simply the choice.” ― Gillian Deacon  This week we will extend our understanding and experience of gratitude to the mind-body connection. Gratitude is much more than an attitude or mood – it is a powerful positive input to our mind-body system that leads to increased physical and psychological well-being.  Grateful thoughts and meditative states don’t just stay in your mind. Messenger molecules instantly transmit their effects to the body’s 100 trillion cells, creating new brain cells and new pathways and brain patterns. The practice of gratitude has even been found to change our gene expression in a positive direction.  By directing our awareness toward gratitude, our entire mind-body system is automatically oriented toward greater health and balance. Daily Journal 1. List some ways in which you can increase positive input to your brain. For example, by keeping a gratitude journal, performing more random acts of kindness, or increasing the amount of times you say “I love you.” 2. Write about the three main factors that most contribute to negative input in your brain. Be specific. These could be stress, fatigue, lack of sleep, criticism, rejection, or disappointment. 3. Thinking about your list from Question 2, journal about three ways you can reduce negative input to your brain. For example, by getting more rest, performing regular exercise, or spending time with close friends. 4. Use this space to reflect further on your experience today.