Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode.
There is one emotion, above all, that elicits a release of the powerful feel-good hormone oxytocin, along with serotonin and dopamine. And promotes better sleep. And lower blood pressure. And decreased inflammation. And fewer aches and pains. Better relationships. Increased longevity.
The list goes on and on.
That emotion is gratitude.
And my guest on today's podcast specialized in teaching gratitude, gratitude implementation and daily gratitude practice strategies and tactics to teachers, educators and children.
His name is Owen Griffith, and he is a university level Student Mentor who supports and guides future teachers. Owen taught as an elementary educator for over a decade. Owen's first book, Gratitude: A Way Of Teaching, was published by Rowman & Littlefield and was a Top Ten Best Seller in April, 2016.
This valuable book gives educators solution-based methods and research-based resources to improve classroom culture, as well as enabling schools to elevate students’ engagement and academic achievement. Grounded in scientific research, it delves into numerous integral aspects of gratitude as it relates to education. It features success stories and step-by-step instructions to successfully implement gratitude in schools. You will discover how to combat materialism and entitlement with gratitude and altruism, how to help teenagers utilize gratitude successfully, as well as encouraging the entire families of our students to embrace gratitude and make it a permanent part of their lives.
He is a regular contributor to Huffington Post and his work has appeared on Edutopia and U. C. Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center’s online magazine. He earned a Master's Degree from Kennesaw State University in Educational Leadership. He is available for consulting, speaking engagements and to lead professional development in a variety of areas. He resides with his wife and son in North Georgia.
During our discussion, you'll discover:
-The important difference between having an attitude of gratitude and positive thinking…[8:00]
-The surprising physical and physiological benefits of gratitude, including the idea of neuroplasticity, cardiac medicine and much more…[13:10 & 19:25]
-The best way to pull yourself or your kids out of the vicious cycle of materialism…[24:40]
-How gratitude can be used to decrease technology and smartphone addiction…[31:05]
-Why Owen says that “gratitude works like a muscle”, and how your brain actually changes and becomes rewired as you practice gratitude…[35:30]
-The fascinating link between mindfulness, silence and gratitude…[43:00]
-The best way to establish a daily gratitude practice for children vs. teens vs. adults…[49:10 & 53:50]
-Owen's favorite resources, books and podcasts for learning more about gratefulness…[60:20]
-And much more!
Resources from this episode:
–Greater Good website at Berkeley
-Owen's Huffington Post Database on Gratitude
–The Christian Gratitude Journal Ben designed
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Do you have questions, thoughts or feedback for Owen or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!
4 Responses
Gratitude hels you relax because when you give gratitude you acknowledge someone has heled you in some way, has made your life easier in some way. Recieving gratitude relaxes people because you know youve done something good so you feel good about yourself.