Abstract

This review explores the evolving relationship between gratitude and well-being, focusing on its neural, physiological, and social effects. Drawing from both Indian spiritual perspectives and contemporary neuroscience, we discuss how gratitude engages specific brain regions, including those linked to moral cognition, empathy, and reward systems. Studies have shown that gratitude interventions, such as journaling, can increase neural sensitivity to gratitude and promote positive social behaviors, includin altruism and support-giving. Furthermore, gratitude has been associated with beneficial effects on physical health, particularly in reducing cardiovascular reactivity to stress. Despite some inconsistencies in findings, research suggests that gratitude can have long-term benefits on both mental and physical health. Future studies should investigate the mechanisms underlying these effects, explore cross-cultural differences, and examine the long-term impact of gratitude practices on health outcomes. This comprehensive understanding may lead to interventions that leverage gratitude for improving individual and societal wellbeing.