4. FLEXIBILITY OF THINKING CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING
5. THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS FOR THE BRAIN Humans are wired for connection; and it’s not just emotional, it’s neurological. + Social Relationships: Strong, healthy bonds serve as fuel for a healthy brain. + Strengthening Connections: Small actions, like listening deeply or showing up consistently, help build deep relationships. + Power of Doing Something New: Shared, new experiences light up the brain and bring joy. + Giving and Receiving Advice: Vulnerability + perspective-taking = brain growth and stronger relationships.
6. THE IMPACT GRATITUDE HAS ON THE BRAIN
Resilience doesn’t mean never bending; it means learning how to bend without breaking. + Flexibility of Thinking: Practice loosening the grip on “one right way.” Most problems have more than one solution. That’s a gift. + Reframing: Teach the brain to shift from shame and fear to learning and growth. + Rumination: Gently guide the brain back to reality when the mind lingers on what-ifs and worst-case scenarios. + Escaping Status Quo: When mothers stretch beyond what’s familiar, their brains come alive.
Gratitude activates the brain’s calming pathways, helping the nervous system move out of stress and into balance. + Gratitude: Naming what one is thankful for, even in hard seasons, reshapes the brain for hope. + Prenatal Gratitude Meditation: This meditation offers a gentle moment to breathe, reflect, and feel grounded in the present. + Postpartum Gratitude Exercise: Gratitude toward others deepens connections and builds resilience. + Ways to Show Gratitude: Thoughtful actions that express appreciation also strengthen emotional and social intelligence.
30 | RESILIENT MINDS: SUPPORTING MATERNAL BRAIN HEALTH IN TIMES OF CRISIS
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