What are some of the benefits of a gratitude practice? A professor weighs in on gratitude. And Engage the Brain staff share their gratitude.
Gratitude is more than saying thank you. While having and using manners is always acceptable, and never will go out of style, gratitude digs deeper. It’s more personal and requires the practitioner to open their eyes – and hearts – and to look beyond all the divisiveness and noise that seems to permeate society today.
How?
In the excellent article “The Science of Gratitude” on mindful.org, it describes how a professor at the University of California defines gratitude. Robert Emmons, professor of psychology and one of the world’s leading experts on the science of gratitude, defines gratitude as having two parts. The first is an affirmation or direct acknowledgement of goodness: People can learn to acknowledge all the good around them and notice the gifts they have received. The second part of gratitude is recognizing that the source of this goodness resides outside of oneself – that we receive these gifts from other people, and sometimes – from a higher power, fate, or even from the world at large. Put another way, gratitude helps people realize that they wouldn’t be where they are without the help of others.
That leads us, Engage the Brain, the leading Learning Center in Central Florida, to reflect and practice our gratitude. Children who struggle in school can find refuge at Engage the Brain. Like an oasis in the desert, a child can restore and refuel with research-backed strategies presented by highly-trained professionals in one-on-one settings. Experts are trained in best practices for supporting students with dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, Executive Functions, and Speech and Language concerns. There is even a hybrid homeschool!
Our Learning Specialists are grateful we get to work at such an amazing location. Echoing Dr. Emmons, first we are grateful (and acknowledge) that everyone supports each other, sharing strategies, materials and tiny tidbits that often result in seismic change in children. And second, we recognize that our Founder (higher power), Jennifer Disch, is central in developing, fostering, and promoting that priceless environment.
The many benefits of gratitude explained
Ever wonder how gratitude works? You’re in luck.. read on!
Gratitude rewires the brain. It triggers the release of the feel-good neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.
Dopamine “hits” can be found by exercising and increasing your pulse rate and achieving the “runner’s high.” Or listen to some music, which has been proven to boost mood.
Serotonin can be boosted in much the same way as dopamine. Increasing your serotonin naturally can be achieved by exercise, socializing with friends, and or heading outdoors and spending some time in nature.
By tapping into gratitude, your brain receives the same boost!
A gratitude practice reduces stress. It calms the nervous system by lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol and activating the parasympathetic nervous system. This can be achieved even simply by going outside and taking a short walk and appreciating the cooler Fall weather.
Amazingly, it can lower anxiety and depression. It can take us out of negative thought loops by shifting our focus to the positive.
Gratitude improves sleep. By jotting down three things you are thankful before bed, it can quiet racing thoughts and promote quality sleep.
It boosts immunity. By reducing stress (and that nasty cortisol) and fostering a positive emotional state, it will support a stronger immune system and boost recovery.
Gratitude strengthens bonds. By expressing appreciation to family, friends, and colleagues, it makes them feel more valued and deepens trust.
Engage the Brain employees share their gratitude
Jennifer Disch: Founder, Educational Therapist, (Awesome Leader)
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? –
I’m incredibly grateful for the amazing people I get to work alongside every day. Our team shares a genuine passion for helping students grow in confidence and discover what they’re capable of. I love that we don’t just teach students WHAT to learn, but HOW to learn. I’m thankful to be surrounded by people who care deeply about making a difference. We truly are better together!
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? –
My family, without a doubt! My two sons bring so much love, laughter, and joy to my life. I’m also incredibly grateful for my husband, Ryan, who has been my biggest cheerleader and supporter of Engage the Brain since day one. As Engage the Brain celebrates its 17th year, I can’t imagine this journey without his encouragement and support. I’m so lucky to have my family by my side!
Hannah Hartman: Director North Park Learning Group (hybrid homeschool), Learning Specialist
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? –
I am grateful to work with a group of people who are professionally experienced, always helpful and willing to share, and genuinely kind. I also get to teach a wonderful group of students in the NPLG program. Their enthusiasm and love for learning is inspiring!
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? –
I am especially grateful because my husband and I welcomed our baby boy, Gabriel, in May.
Sabrina Sullivan: A/OGA, Student Services Director
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? –
I’m grateful to be part of a creative, collaborative, and committed team that goes above and beyond to help each learner succeed. I love that we can share ideas, learn from one another, and celebrate the progress our students make. Also, my enthusiasm for spelling rules is tolerated here, for the most part. 🙂
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? –
I’m so thankful for my family, friends, and little zoo of furry companions. I’m also very grateful for a good lint roller!
Jenny Wolcott: Executive Functions Field Expert
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? – I’m grateful to work with such amazingly supportive and caring people. Everyone is always willing to help each other, share new and useful information with each other, and learn from each other. We all have the same goal, which is to be the best for our students, and that care really shows in how we treat each other. It’s a wonderful feeling and I’m very grateful for it.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? – I’m grateful for having a wonderful family who has always supported me in anything I do and has taught me to be strong and resilient. I love them ALL with all my heart.
Laura Mulconrey: Director North Park Learning Group and Summer Smarts
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? I am grateful to work at EtB because I get to be surrounded by coworkers who genuinely care about educating students. Working alongside people who are creative, compassionate, and committed to continually honing their craft inspires me every day. I feel fortunate to be part of a team that is so passionate about helping students grow and succeed.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? I am grateful for my family and friends who are always there to support me through the ups and downs of life. Having people I can count on, who encourage me and are there for me no matter what, is something I truly appreciate.
Beth Sharpe: Business Development Officer
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? – I’m so grateful to be part of a team that lifts each other up and genuinely celebrates every win, whether it’s a breakthrough for a student or a milestone in our own professional growth. Working in a space where everyone’s success matters is what makes Engage the Brain such a positive place to be!
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? – Looking at my personal life, I feel so grateful for the unconditional love of my family. I am blessed with a husband who works tirelessly for us and stands by me in every wild adventure. To add to that blessing, my two sons have found fulfilling careers where they get to make a real difference and help others every day. This fills my heart with so much gratitude for the blessings I’ve been given.
Jayden Flores: Learning Specialist/North Park Learning Group Instructor
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? – I’m grateful to work here at Engage the Brain because I know that I’m surrounded by people who support one another. I’m thankful for the positive and uplifting environment that our teachers and tutors create not only for our students but also for each other!
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? – I’m grateful for my health and the health and well-being of those around me. I believe that taking care of ourselves and one another is one of the most important things we can all prioritize in life. In my experience, keeping up with our physical and mental well-being allows us to make the most of the opportunities life has to offer, especially as learners.
Summer Riedel: Speech Language Pathologist
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? – I am grateful to work at EtB because not a day goes by where I do not feel supported or valued. EtB is such a welcoming place to work and everyone is always so kind and willing to help. Being part of such a supportive and collaborative community in the workplace is truly special.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? – One thing that I am grateful for in my life is my family. For as long as I can remember, every birthday, holiday, life celebration, and similar occasion has been spent with all family members. What I find particularly meaningful about these gatherings, however, is that they have consistently included “extended” family members. In my family, there is no distinction of ‘extended’; everyone simply comes together and genuinely enjoys each other’s company. This dynamic is quite uncommon, and I am truly grateful to be part of such a close-knit family.
Cathy Griffin: Math Lead/Learning Specialist
Why are you grateful to work at EtB? – I am grateful to work at ETB because of the caring and supportive colleagues as well as the fantastic students I get to work with.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life? – I am most grateful for my family. 😊
Julia Scurlock: Learning Specialist/Written Expression Field Expert
Why are you grateful to work at EtB?
I am grateful to be part of Engage the Brain, an awesome community of learners, families, and Specialists. EtB fosters my professional growth by providing meaningful opportunities to learn and expand my skills. I am surrounded by colleagues who are experts in their respective fields, and I continually learn from their knowledge and experience. I especially appreciate the opportunity to work with my students, celebrate their progress, and support them as they develop confidence and discover their potential. Engage the Brain is not only a place where I can grow professionally, but also a supportive, collaborative, and fun community in which to work.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life?
I am incredibly grateful for my family and friends, whose love and support remain constant through both the joyful and challenging times in life. They bring me comfort, laughter, and encouragement, reminding me how fortunate I am to have such wonderful people by my side. Their presence enriches my life.
Lori Braciak: Bookkeeper
Why are you grateful to work at EtB?
Exceptional Leadership: Having Jennifer as a boss is inspiring—her guidance and vision set a great tone for all of us.
Company Culture: The positive, supportive environment makes coming to work a truly rewarding experience.
Wonderful Co-Workers: I’m lucky to work alongside such dedicated, talented, and kind colleagues.
Professional Respect: I deeply appreciate the mutual trust and respect that allows everyone to grow and succeed.
What is one thing you are grateful for in your life?
In my personal life, I am deeply grateful for my family. From my husband, children, and grandchildren to my mom and the loved ones who are no longer with us, family is what matters most to me. And… I am grateful for my cats: Molly & Snowcap!!!
Engage the Brain students share their gratitude
Owen R. NPLG high school student:
“The flexibility of being in NPLG has allowed me to progress my professional abilities outside of the classroom faster than I would have anywhere else!” (Owen is an amazing professional photographer)
Sutton, 4th grade:
It’s special because you learn spelling and reading and math and the tutors help you.
Allison, 5th grade:
I’m thankful of how kind the teachers are and how kind the students are.
Brendan, 6th grade:
Thankful for good teachers.
Emmett, 4th grade:
It (EtB) has fun toys. My teacher is nice and funny!
Final thoughts
It is such a simple concept: to be grateful for all the good in our lives. And yes, many people deal with terrible, horrific, and unthinkable situations every day. Gratitude is not an attempt to ignore or pretend these awful elements do not exist. Rather, it is in spite of these horrendous events that we can still look for and acknowledge the good that comes our way. A beautiful sunset. An unexpected text from a friend or loved one. Someone holding the door as you enter a public building. Small acts, that when acknowledged, pay big dividends.
Engage the Brain encourages all of our families – parents and students – to practice gratitude and to hopefully reap all the wonderful benefits associated with it. Simply look for it, acknowledge it, and consider its source.
We would be grateful if you gave it a try.