Make Gratitude Part of Your Daily Culture

“Gratitude expressed is a treasure to those who receive, as well as those who give.”

Have you ever felt a “rush” or high when you’re able to take a moment and let your appreciation of something or someone really sink in? How about when you’re on the receiving end of that appreciation? If you’re feeling particularly good, then that’s good in itself! You’re experiencing the good feelings that gratitude brings. It’s not uncommon; in fact, there is a real physiological connection as to why!

But first, what is gratitude?

Gratitude is the expression of deep thankfulness or appreciation for something and or someone.It’s an acknowledgement of the positive impact something has on you, be it a word, an action, a gift, a compliment… even sometimes just a simple affirmation. Gratitude puts the mind into a certain place. First, because of the positive nature of its expression. Expressing appreciation can slow down the mind and inspire mindfulness, helping to bring things into focus and build a general sense of thankfulness. Taking even the briefest moment to “take inventory” can slow things down, and if need be, help you catch “your breath.”

What does it do for the body?

But what about that good feeling you get when you show gratitude? It’s more than just a feeling. Studies have shown that gratitude has a real effect on the brain, both for those receiving it; as well as those showing it. When you’re expressing gratitude, you’re shifting your mood and thinking to a positive place. Being intentional about recognizing something or someone that truly has done something positive OR taking the time and energy to do something for someone that would cause them to feel it, causes the brain to create dopamine and serotonin, the “feel good” hormones.  These two hormones pack a powerful punch.They’ve been linked to

·       Reduced stress and increased motivation

·       Better sleep

·       A greater sense of calmness

·       Better digestion

·       Mood regulation

Did you know that showingappreciationcan help with “neuroplasticity,” the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by creating new neural pathways?  In fact, adopting and maintaining a positive outlook, which includes being thankful, has a direct impact oncognitive functions.

Gratitude, part of our communal culture

In the Village of Peace in Dimona and throughout our community, gratitude is a fundamental principle. Few things hold greater fundamental value. In fact, we have two distinct cultural celebrations every early winter and early spring, devoted to expressing our gratitude. In the winter, we focus on showering our Elders, or “Treasured Treasures,” with a season of celebration called “Yom Sayvah,” or Elder’s Day, in the 11thmonth (November).

Our Elders, many of whom were pioneers who helped to lay the foundations of our Village of Peace, are deeply loved and valued. They represent spirituality, tenacity, focus, sacrifice, and clarity of purpose that were so vital in establishing us from a mere concept to now. We see them as the “living libraries,” because of the tremendous amount of life experience and wisdom they continue to share with us. We shower them with gifts, pamper them with massages, manicures, and pedicures, and hold special meals in their honor. Most importantly, we continue to remind them of how essential they are to us.

In the spring, we have a more family-based celebration, “Yom L’mokereem,” or the Day of Appreciation. Some visitors to the Village of Peace have compared it to Christmas, due to the gift exchange many family members and others do during this time. But that’s the only similarity. Here, the gratitude expression is more multifaceted and multigenerational. More than just a day, the “season” lasts several days and includes collective celebrations, games, and musical performances.

More than just material gifts, we share specially made items or render services that are tailored to the receiver and uniquely express the spirit of the giver. The ultimate goal is to erase any doubt about the intrinsic value of our relationship with one another, the Creation and the Creator, and this communal lifestyle that we have chosen.

Create your gratitude practice

·       Start with a sincere “Thanks” when appropriate

·       Give sincere, heartfelt compliments – without asking and without “strings attached”

·       Return a good deed with a good deed and return a bad deed with a good one wherever possible

·       Make time each day to make a mental or physical list of the things and people that help you grow

·       Make time to serve and assist those who might not be as fortunate as you

·       Look to find as much joy as possible in the greatest and least things around you

In the Village of Peace – Dimona, and our communities worldwide, we recognize that gratitude is a vitamin for the mind, body, and soul. Pursuing and expressing it is part of Mastering the Art of Living.