Gratitude comes to mind as I write this week’s Thursday Tips [TT] newsletter.

I am writing this whilst on the train to Liverpool, where I spent 5 years of my Neurology registrar (residency) training.

I’m excited to return today to give an invited talk on eye movements.

I feel forever grateful for the nurture and support from my supervisors and bosses whilst in training.

I’m lucky and grateful to have had incredible teachers over the years from school-age to post-graduate years.

This is also why I feel so passionately about supporting students and residents in training.

The question you may be asking is:

How does this relate to brain health?

Gratitude can have a powerful cascading effect on the brain!

Gratitude can activate multiple areas of your brain simultaneously: from your prefrontal cortex (decision-making centre) to your limbic system (emotional centre).

Gratitude creates a symphony of positive brain activity.

Research shows that regular gratitude practice can increase grey matter volume and enhance neural plasticity.*

3 Tips to Boost Your Brain Through Gratitude

 Start Your Day with Gratitude Priming

Your morning brain state influences your entire day.

Just like morning light resets your circadian rhythm, morning gratitude resets your neural patterns.

Take 2 minutes before checking your phone to note three things you’re grateful for – this simple act floods your brain with mood-enhancing neurotransmitters.

 Practice Active Appreciation

Your brain strengthens what you focus on.

When something good happens, pause for 15 seconds to really feel the appreciation.

This deliberate pause helps your brain create stronger positive neural pathways and reduces activity in your stress centres.

 Create Gratitude Connections

Your brain thrives on social connection and positive emotions combined.

Express appreciation to someone daily – whether through a message, call, or in person.

This social gratitude practice activates both your brain’s reward system and social bonding networks.

Question for you today

What do you feel grateful for today? 

 Thank you for subscribing to my [TT] newsletter – let me know if you have specific topics you’d like me to cover!

Sending you love and gratitude,

Dr Sui Wong