Effects of Gratitude on the Body:
Researchers have found that when we think about someone or something we really appreciate and experience the feeling that goes with the thought, the parasympathetic -- calming-branch of the autonomic nervous system -- is triggered. This pattern when repeated bestows a protective effect on the heart. The electromagnetic heart patterns of volunteers tested become more coherent and ordered when they activate feelings of appreciation. There is evidence that when we practice bringing attention to what we appreciate in our lives, more positive emotions emerge, leading to beneficial alterations in heart rate variability. Neurobiologically, gratitude is nested within the social emotions, along with awe, wonder, "elevation" and pride. It can be both practiced and experienced. [more]

Be The Change:
Try some of the "Seven Ways to Gratitude," courtesy of the University of Texas Health Science Center. [more]

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	Previous Reflections:
On Mar 23, 2009 BERNARD LEVINE writes:	BLESS SOMEONE TODAY By BERNARD LEVINE Bless someone today with words of kindness Do something nice for a friend Sow seeds of encouragement into a stranger's heart Tell your loved ones you greatly adore them Make someone's day precious and beautiful Give God praise for His greatness Strengthen your companion with fruits of joy Add faith to your neighbor's life Bless someone today and remember - Jesus loves you. © Bernard Levine
On Mar 23, 2009 Mehul writes:	I hope you enjoying reading this!
On Mar 23, 2009 Dinesh writes:	Great thought!
On Mar 23, 2009 stella writes:	postive encouragement not only helps the receiver but also helps the person who appreciates,even a small hello with a you look great for a person who is shabbily dressed always,but makes an effort some times to dress properly,just observe and see the person tries to improve the attire attitude,and this makes me feel good.Appreciation does needs no cost but brings joy to the other person,and joy and happiness are infectious so you also contact it,be happy enjoy life each day as it comes give praise to the lord for he made as humans and not beast.
On Mar 24, 2009 MITALI writes:	BE POITIVE, THINK POSITVE N HAV POSITIVE THINKS IN UR LIFE. THIS IS THE MOTIVE WHICH BRINGS SUCCESS IN LIFE. ENJOY UR DAY.
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