Practicing gratitude has been shown to reduce stress and improve our sense of wellbeing. Research shows that when we think about what we appreciate, the parasympathetic (or calming) part of the nervous system is triggered and that can have protective benefits on the body, including decreasing cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and releasing dopamine and serotonin. Serotonin helps you feel happier, calmer, and more focused, while dopamine makes you feel motivated, accomplis