Healthy Healers Course

Positive Psychology, the scientific study of how humans can thrive and live their best lives, tells us we can learn to become more grateful and that when we do, good things happen to us. Among those things are:

Physical

• Strengthened immune system;

• Lower blood pressure;

• Reduced symptoms of illness;

• Feeling less bothered by aches and pains.

Emotional and Spiritual

• Increased well-being and happiness.

• Increase in positive relationships. ^4,5,6

In your eJournal, describe three gifts (not necessarily material gifts) or benefits you have been given in your life. For example, the gift of a kind heart, life long friendships, or the gift of loving parents. How have those gifts helped you in your life? 1. Click here to go to your eJournal (Note that you must go to the eJournal for your Group).      eJournal Group 1      eJournal Group 2 2. Click on 'edit' and make your eJournal entry. 3. Click on Save changes

What does Gratitude have to do with our work?

Researchers from Harvard conducted a study on the effects of a three-hour Positive Psychology class on the employees of an accounting firm. Throughout the week, the workers participated in a five-step gratitude exercise. One week after the class, and again four months later, the employees reported being more satisfied about their lives, less bothered by stress, felt greater social support, and feeling more effective and optimistic at work.⁷ The gratitude exercise included the following steps:

1. List three new things you are grateful for each day.
   
2. Describe a positive experience you had over the past 24 hours.
   
3. Physically exercise for 10 minutes a day (this could be walking to and from work).
4. Sit quietly (or meditate) for 2 minutes, focusing on your breath going in and out.
5. Write one quick note or email first thing in the morning thanking or praising a co-worker.

Think a minute about the first two steps of the exercise... What are three new things that you are grateful for today? What is one positive experience you've had over the past 24 hours.

 You will have the opportunity to practice all five steps of the Gratitude Exercise, as part of your “Going Deeper” assignment.