Calm Corner: “Thanks, Brain!” — How Gratitude Changes the Way We See the World

By Victoria Stacy, Co-Editor of the Kids’ Section

Have you ever said “thank you” and felt a little happier afterward? That’s not just a feeling! Something special is happening inside your brain! Gratitude, which means noticing and appreciating the good things in life, can actually change how your brain works and help you spot even more positive moments around you.

What is gratitude (and what’s mindfulness)?

Gratitude is paying attention to the things, big or small,that make life better: a friend sharing a snack, a warm blanket, a teacher helping you, or a fun game at recess.

Mindfulness is slowing down and focusing on what’s happening right now. When you combine mindfulness with gratitude, you give your brain a chance to really notice the good things instead of rushing past them.

Your brain on gratitude

Scientists have discovered that when you think about something you’re thankful for, certain brain areas light up—especially the parts that help you feel happy, calm, and connected to others. When these parts of the brain are active, your body releases more “feel-good” chemicals.

Even cooler? The more you practice gratitude, the stronger those parts of your brain become just like a muscle! Over time, your brain learns to look for the positive instead of focusing only on problems or stress.

Researchers say that gratitude can even make your brain better at noticing kindness, joy, hope, and good opportunities around you. It’s like switching on a “positive-finding flashlight” inside your head!

Why does gratitude matter in everyday life?

Life isn’t perfect. Sometimes we have tough days, feel frustrated, or things don’t go our way. Gratitude doesn’t erase challenges, but it balances them by reminding us that good things still exist. Kids who practice gratitude often:

• Feel happier and less worried

• Sleep better

• Get along more easily with others

• Feel more confident and proud of themselves

Gratitude can even help us bounce back faster after something disappointing happens because our brains know where to look for hope and support.

Train your brain!

Your brain pays attention to what you practice. If you complain a lot, your brain gets better at spotting what’s wrong. But if you practice gratitude, your brain becomes better at finding what’s right. That means every “thank you,” every happy memory you notice, and every moment you appreciate something helps your brain grow stronger and kinder.

A tiny experiment you can try right now

Take a slow breath. Think of one good thing that happened today-anything! Maybe you enjoyed breakfast, someone smiled at you, or you learned something new. Notice how thinking of that good thing feels in your body. Warmer? Calmer? Smilier? That’s gratitude doing its job!

Your brain is always learning. When you focus on what’s good, your brain becomes better at seeing the world as a place full of possibility, kindness, and little moments of joy.

So take a second today to say, “Thanks, brain!” Because being thankful helps you become the best version of you.