Chaplain's Spot
Attitude of Gratitude
Our attitude in life plays a big part in how we approach life, with all its ups and downs. I found this article recently and thought it might be a positive focus for the new term.
8 tips to help you cultivate an attitude of gratitude — Calm Blog
Benefits of having a gratitude practice
Gratitude can elevate mood - Expressing gratitude can stimulate the release of "feel-good" neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which help to elevate mood and create a sense of wellbeing.
Gratitude can help reduce envy - Gratitude helps us focus on what we have rather than what we lack, possibly reducing feelings of envy and jealousy. By appreciating our blessings, we can find contentment and joy in the present.
Gratitude can increase resilience - Grateful individuals tend to have greater emotional resilience. They can better cope with adversity, as the positive perspective fostered by gratitude helps them reframe challenging situations and find silver linings.
Gratitude can improve your sleep - Gratitude has been linked to better sleep quality and duration. By calming the mind and reducing stress, it contributes to more restful sleep.
Gratitude can reduce stress - Gratitude is a natural stress-buster. It can help to reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol, leading to a more relaxed state of mind.
Gratitude has cardiovascular benefits - Some studies suggest that gratitude may have cardiovascular benefits. Reduced stress, along with enhanced emotional wellbeing, can contribute to a healthier heart.
Gratitude can help foster better relationships - Expressing gratitude within relationships can strengthen bonds. When people feel appreciated and valued, they are more likely to invest in and nurture those connections.
Gratitude can enhance empathy - Grateful individuals tend to be more empathetic and considerate of others' feelings. They are attuned to the support they receive and are more likely to reciprocate kindness.
Gratitude creates a positive social environment - A culture of gratitude can create a positive social environment. When people regularly express thankfulness, it encourages others to do the same, leading to a cycle of positivity and kindness.
8 tips to help close the gratitude gap
Many of us believe it’s unnecessary, unimportant, too hard, or just embarrassing to verbalize our gratitude. We let our (sometimes subconscious) fears of how our words will be received, or how we will be perceived, stop us from expressing our affection.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
It can be vulnerable to openly share gratitude, but it’s a risk worth taking. Use these 8 tips to help you close the gratitude gap and soak up all the benefits of gratitude in your life.
1. Practice mindfulness
In order to feel gratitude throughout your day, it’s helpful to practice living in the present. This could be through meditation, deep breathing, or anything that helps you stay focused on the ‘now’.
2. Verbalize your gratitude
Make a daily habit to express gratitude. Whether a family member, friend, or coworker, thank them for their kindness or support. Be specific about what you appreciate.
3. Take a gratitude walk
As you stroll through your neighbourhood or a nearby park, observe and internally express gratitude for the beauty of nature, the fresh air, or the peaceful surroundings.
4. Use tech reminders to support your gratitude practice
Set daily reminders on your phone or computer to take a gratitude break. Let these prompts help you pause, reflect, and find moments of thankfulness through your busy day.
5. Reframe negative situations
When faced with challenges, try to reframe them in a more realistic or positive light. Look for a silver lining or lessons learned. This change can help embrace gratitude even in adversity.
6. Start with gratitude
Make a habit of starting each meal, meeting, or gathering in your day with a quick outward expression of gratitude. Maybe it's for the food you're eating, the work of your coworkers, or the love of the family and friends you’re with.
7. Commit to a gratitude buddy
Share your daily gratitude with a friend or loved one. Through a quick text, email, or in person chat, check-in about the things you're thankful for that day. This strengthens your bond and holds you accountable.
8. Volunteer or help others
A most powerful way to express gratitude is by giving back. Engage in volunteer activities or just offer to help someone in need. When you witness the impact of your actions on someone's life, it offers a fresh perspective and amplifies your feelings of gratitude.
Community wellbeing:
Toast Tuesday: Our free breakfast program runs weekly on Tuesdays at 8.30am, open to all students. Woolies Eastland supports us with a monthly gift card for our spreads.
We would love to have a couple more parent helpers. You need to have a current ‘Working with Children’ card. My wife Bonnie coordinates the team. There are 2 rostered on with her. The link to the Term 2 roster is volunteersignup.org/8RP9L .
Baker Delight goods: We are thankful to Bakers Delight Heathmont, for their generous provision of loaves for Toast Tuesday. If you would appreciate regular bakery items, please email me, or see me at school.
Second-hand uniforms: If you need any uniforms, we have a large supply of second-hand items in good condition. Gold coins are all you need. Check our stock at Toast Tuesday.
Contact: You will notice the categories of pastoral care at the end of this article. There may be times when you are feeling fragile [emotional], disconnected [social], wondering about life [spiritual] and needing practical wellbeing. Feel free to contact me about anything that is of concern for you or your family.
Regarding students, I can meet with them once, and for further contact we ask parents to sign a Consent Form. If you would like a form, I can send one home or email one to you.
Alan Silverwood: Chaplain - Pastoral care for our community. [Tuesday & Friday]
[alan.silverwood@education.vic.gov.au]
Supporting the School community in emotional, social, spiritual and practical wellbeing.
Our Chaplaincy program is funded by the Federal Government’s ‘National Student Wellbeing Program’, the GRPS School Council and donations.