Neuroscientist Dr Wendy Suzuki suggests a simple yet powerful habit for improving brain health: practicing gratitude.
Dr Suzuki highlights that dedicating 10 minutes daily to focus on positive memories, experiences or small joys can help rewire the brain for better emotional wellbeing and cognitive resilience [1].
Research indicates that gratitude boosts levels of dopamine and serotonin – chemicals linked to happiness and clarity of mind. Dr Suzuki, a professor at NYU, also emphasizes that gratitude reduces stress, a critical factor that, if left unchecked, can damage the brain over time.
Prolonged stress increases cortisol, a hormone that, in high amounts, can harm brain cells and weaken memory [2]. Gratitude practice, however, decreases this effect by lowering cortisol levels, promoting a calmer, more resilient mind.
For an easy start, Dr Suzuki advises jotting down three things you’re grateful for each morning or reflecting on positive moments at the end of the day. She notes consistency is essential, as regular practice reinforces neural pathways associated with positive thinking and resilience.
In just a few minutes daily, gratitude offers a straightforward approach to strengthening brain health and cultivating emotional wellbeing, grounded in neuroscience.
[1] CNBC Make It. Neuroscientist: The No. 1 thing you can do every day for a sharper, healthier brain—it takes ‘just 10 minutes’
[2] Cells. The Role of Cortisol in Chronic Stress, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Psychological Disorders
