attitude of gratitude: the science of gratitude boosts happiness, well being, & so much more

Attitude of GratitudeAttitude of GratitudeDebbie Lyn Toomey RN, CIPP, Positive Psychology Coach

Health & Happiness Specialist

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Copyright Ultimate Healing Journey 2014 www.ultimatehealingjourney.com

Objectives:Objectives:

Discuss researched health benefits of the Science of Gratitude

Share the three stages of gratitude

List four different gratitude techniques

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Cicero. Roman author, orator, & politician Cicero. Roman author, orator, & politician (106 BC - 43 BC).(106 BC - 43 BC).

“Gratitude is not

only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.”

Copyright Ultimate Healing Journey 2014 www.ultimatehealingjourney.com 3

A special day of “THANKS”A special day of “THANKS”4


““Look for the Good”Look for the Good”5


Positive PsychologyPositive Psychology

Martin Seligman, PhD

Father of Positive Psychology

The “Science of Happiness” and using what’s all ready working to lead happy life where one can flourish.

1998

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Merriam-Webster DefinitionMerriam-Webster Definition

Gratitude:

- The state of being grateful: Thankfulness

- A feeling of appreciation or thanks

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According to experts Gratitude According to experts Gratitude is…is…

“A momentary positive emotion that broadens behavioral repertoires and builds durable psycho-social resources.” (Barbara Fredrickson)

“A felt sense of wonder, thankfulness, and appreciation for life.” (Robert Emmons)

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more on Gratitude…more on Gratitude…

“helps us savor positive experiences that leads us to be more helpful, it prevents us from taking things for granted.” (Sonia Lyubormisky)

Neutralizes negative emotions such as envy, bitterness, greed, etc.(R. Emmons)

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Robert Emmons, PhDRobert Emmons, PhDgreatergoodgreatergood.berkeley.edu/ .berkeley.edu/ The Science of a The Science of a

Meaningful LifeMeaningful Life

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3 Stages of Gratitude (R. Emmons)3 Stages of Gratitude (R. Emmons)

1. Finding the Good

2. Taking in the Good

3. Giving back the Good

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Robert Emmons states that:Robert Emmons states that:

1. Abundant2. Boost feelings of

well being3. Feels connected4. Gift5. Appreciation

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Stress relief expert Lauren E. Stress relief expert Lauren E. Miller states gratitude & RAK can:Miller states gratitude & RAK can:

Increased immune system

Improved Cognitive Performance

Increase in energyLower heart rateBalanced cortisol

levels which result in less internal stress

More likely to live a longer and more satisfied life

lower blood pressure; diminished pain


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4 Practices/Techniques:4 Practices/Techniques:

1. 3 Blessings (R. Emmons)

2. Gratitude journal (R. Emmons, Sonia Lyubormisky)

3. Gratitude visit (Martin Seligman)

4. What Went Well?(Tal Ben-Sha har)

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What Went Well?What Went Well?

Go from being a “Fault Finder” to becoming a “Benefit Finder”

(Tal Ben-Sha har, Ph.D Wholebeing Institute)

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I am grateful for…I am grateful for…18



During hard times according to Robert Emmons is when a “grateful attitude helps—it is essential. In fact, it is precisely under crisis conditions when we have the most to gain by a grateful perspective on life. In the face of demoralization, gratitude has the power to energize. In the face of brokenness, gratitude has the power to heal. In the face of despair, gratitude has the power to bring hope. In other words, gratitude can help us cope with hard times.” (R. Emmons)

Attach a New Habit to Old RoutineAttach a New Habit to Old Routine20


SummarySummary

The Science of Gratitude show many benefits that improves health and well-being

Three stages of gratitude: Look, Take, Receive the good.

There are four major gratitude techniques

“Look for the Good.”


Coming soon …Coming soon …

All About Love: All Day Event in Boston Saturday, June 7 2014

“Being A.W.E.S.O.M.E.” online 2 month program.

Yoga Hub TV shows (Trinity of Life and

Empowerment Through Positive Psychology)


Debbie Lyn Toomey RN, CIPP, Positive Psychology Coach

www.ultimatehealingjourney.com [email protected]

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attitude of gratitude: the science of gratitude boosts happiness, well being, & so much more

Health & Medicine