The Health Benefits of Gratitude Journaling

Data scientist Brian Richmond has advanced the field of people analytics through his role at WeWork and his involvement with people analytic groups in the Bay Area and New York. In 2018, Brian Richmond accepted a position as senior data scientist for the startup Aura Health. Aura offers a wellness-focused app that offers guided meditations, life coaching recordings, and a gratitude journal.

The act of writing down what one is thankful for has become popularized in the health and wellness industry, due in large part to its multitude of physical and mental health benefits. Feeling gratitude releases many of the same neurotransmitters as happiness, such as dopamine and serotonin. This can improve mood and overall well-being.

In a study published by the Journal of Positive Psychology, adolescents who kept a gratitude journal were more likely to exhibit altruistic behavior. Other studies have linked gratitude journaling to lower stress levels, a more positive outlook, and healthier relationships. Establishing a daily gratitude journaling routine can also decrease depression and anxiety symptoms.