First off...not gratitude!!
The takeaway message from studies is the importance of fostering positive feelings, especially AWE, in our lives to reduce inflammation as well as positively influence the immune system. (If you are interested in reading the entire studies available, Google it! JK, link at the end)
Awe is often linked to feelings of social connectedness and social exploration. So, from a practical perspective, the first step is to become more socially engaged. This goal is especially important if you are dealing with depression, because these situations often lead to social isolation. Here are some recommendations to become more socially engaged: • Encourage positive relationships. A person is never too old to learn how to be a better friend, parent, mentor, or better listener. • Get connected online. Yes, there is much to sift through but if you are particular, online activity can be a great social tool. • Join a club or church. In today’s world, there are always opportunities to find places to socialize that are positive and healthful. • Volunteer. There is perhaps no greater opportunity to feel connected than by finding a way to volunteer time and energy towards a greater good.
The health benefits of increased socialization are significant. Many of these benefits may be related to fighting inflammation and studies indicate that people who feel connected and have strong social relationships have lower levels of inflammatory markers in their blood.
Next, “What inspires you and causes you to feel awe?” What research shows is that something as simple as listening to music, walking in nature, or being creative, can have a positive impact on health. The simplest processes are often the most undervalued.
For me, learning about natural opportunities for healing bring a sense of awe. Every day I read or hear another account of truly awe-inspiring experiences.
1. Stellar JE, John-Henderson N, Anderson CL, et al. Positive affect and markers of inflammation: Discrete positive emotions predict lower levels of inflammatory cytokines. Emotion. 2015;15(2):129-133.
2. Graham-Engeland JE, Sin NL, Smyth JM, et al. Negative and positive affect as predictors of inflammation: Timing matters. Brain Behav Immun. 2018 Nov;74:222-230.
3. Slavish DC, Jones DR, Smyth JM, et al. Positive and Negative Affect and Salivary Markers of Inflammation Among Young Adults. Int J Behav Med. 2020 Jun;27(3):282-293.
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