During these unprecedented times, it is easy to feel disconnected and isolated, afraid and anxious.
Our GW theme during October is usually Gratitude, as it falls nicely in with Thanksgiving.
Research proves that gratitude is beneficial to mental health well-being.
Research on gratitude
( https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier. )
Two psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California, Davis, and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of Miami, have done much of the research on gratitude. In one study, they asked all participants to write a few sentences each week, focusing on particular topics.
One group wrote about things they were grateful for that had occurred during the week. A second group wrote about daily irritations or things that had displeased them, and the third wrote about events that had affected them (with no emphasis on them being positive or negative). After 10 weeks, those who wrote about gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. Surprisingly, they also exercised more and had fewer visits to physicians than those who focused on sources of aggravation.
Another poignant phrase in the article below states, “that gratitude may live up to its reputation as “the mother of all virtues” by encouraging the development of other virtues such as patience, humility, and wisdom.”
https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Gratitude-FINAL.pdf
At Glenwood – we are thankful for so many things: our students, our staff, our parent community, our collective kindness and acceptance.
Themes that came to the forefront during our class reviews were that of inclusivity and kindness.
And for that, we are extremely grateful.
Thank you.