There’s a quiet power in gratitude. Not the flashy, hashtagged kind that’s all over social media—but the real, soul-deep kind that anchors you when life feels wobbly.
As a hypnotherapist, I’ve spent years helping clients peel back the layers of stress and anxiety. But one of the most transformative tools I’ve seen time and time again—both in the therapy room and in my own life—is the simple act of giving thanks.
I’m 48 now. And somewhere along the way, I realised that gratitude isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a neurological shift. Science has finally caught up with what spiritual traditions have known for centuries: that when we consciously focus on what’s good, what’s working, what we do have, our brain chemistry changes. How amazing, is that!
Studies show that Gratitude activates the hypothalamus, and it boosts dopamine and serotonin—those lovely “feel good” chemicals we’re all naturally wired to crave. In hypnosis, I often guide clients into relaxed states where they can tap into memories of appreciation or joy. And when they do? Their breathing slows, their heart rate steadies, and something magical happens: the brain rewires itself for calm.
It’s not about pretending everything’s perfect. Life, as we all know, can be messy, painful, unpredictable. But gratitude is like a lantern—it doesn’t eliminate the darkness, but it gives you just enough light to see your next step.
One of my favourite exercises to use with my son before bed is the “Three Good Things” practice. Asking him what well that day—no matter how small.
I practise this too. Just thinking about, a kind word from a friend. The smell of your morning coffee. The way the sky looked before the rain came in. Over time, this tiny ritual has the power to re-train your brain to scan for the positive.
I’ve seen clients move from burnout to balance, from overwhelm to peace, just by making this a habit. I’ve experienced it myself, too. On the days when the world feels heavy, I come back to the basics: breath, presence, and gratitude.
So if you’re reading this and life feels a bit too much right now, let this be your gentle reminder: gratitude isn’t just fluff—it’s a foundation. It’s a practice. And it just might be the thing that brings you back to yourself.
Let us know in the comments, if this resonates with you.
