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The responsibilities of an educator do not only limit to educate learners regarding various subjects, but it also includes fostering culture and manners in the classroom that will enrich their lives in the long run. One of the things that educators across the globe try to achieve and improve classroom culture is practising gratitude which is described as the quality to be thankful and showing appreciation for what we have. During this unprecedented time, when many of us are struggling to adapt to the new normal, building SEL (social and emotional learning) skills such as gratitude becomes more important than ever.
 

Why gratitude?
 

As educators, it is often forgotten that little, everyday actions in the classroom can have a great impact on the lives of learners. A little appreciation can transform relationships and boost their self-worth.
 

Simple gestures of gratitude, can create a positive atmosphere and strengthen the bonds among teachers, kids and the community. But gratitude is not just about recognition, it's also about supporting and inspiring others.
 

Studies have shown that when someone gets appreciated, they feel more socially valued, and this can lead to prosocial behaviour. In other words, when someone receives appreciation, they are more likely to pay it back. The more teachers express and practise gratitude in the classroom, the more inspired students will be to do the same.
 

So, as an educator equipped with student counselling techniques, instilling the gratitude-rich manners is sure to help you in creating a culture of thanksgiving in classrooms.
 

There are endless number of activities to practise in the classroom for having a positive attitude, especially about the aspects of life that can be challenging.
 

Recent studies by eminent personalities in the field of gratitude and education have proven that gratitude improves the lives of students. Practising gratitude has the following mental health benefits on individuals:
 

1. Improves mood
 

Those who regularly express gratitude for the positive things in their life show increased levels of happiness leading to lower rates of stress and depression.
 

2. It makes you more optimistic
 

Studies show that expressing gratitude regularly makes an individual to have a more positive outlook towards life.
 

3. Improves social bonds
 

People have agreed to feeling more loved and more attached to others in their lives when they practice gratitude on a regular basis.
 

4. Improves overall physical health
 

People keenly expressing gratitude are inclined to being more engaged in activities regarding taking care of their physical health, eating well and exercising leading to higher energy levels, better sleeping patterns along with a stronger immune system, and the ability to fight any illness or infection.
 

5. Improves psychological health
 

Gratitude has the power to reduce a swarm of toxic emotions. From envy and resentment to frustration and regret, gratitude can effectively increase happiness and reduce depression.
 

6. Enhances empathy and reduces aggression
 

Grateful individuals are more likely to behave in a ‘prosocial’ manner even when others behave in a less kindly manner.
 

7. Boosts self-esteem
 

A study found that gratitude boosts self-esteem among individuals, an essential component to optimal performance.
 

Teachers with the role of a school counsellor have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude among the learners. Teaching learners to focus on all that they have, rather than complain about the things you think you deserve is sure to bring positive changes in their lives.