Opinion: The science is clear

Commentary by Jeff Worrell

As we continue our journey toward enhanced civility, science offers compelling evidence why I am focusing on gratitude to kick off the new year and believe it should be at the heart of our community initiatives. Recent research reveals that gratitude isn’t simply a pleasant sentiment — it’s a powerful force that can transform both individual well-being and community dynamics.

The Neuroscience of Gratitude Research, an online compilation of research by various scientists,  using advanced brain imaging has shown that gratitude activates areas in the brain associated with moral cognition, reward and social bonding. When we express or receive gratitude, our brains release dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that immediately enhance our mood and promote lasting positive feelings. This biological response explains why grateful interactions in our community — whether at Carmel Porchfest or during city council meetings — create lasting positive impressions.

Mental and Physical Benefits Studies from Harvard Medical School and UCLA demonstrate that regularly practicing gratitude can reduce stress levels by up to 23 percent, improve sleep quality, decrease anxiety and depression symptoms and increase overall life satisfaction. Individual benefits directly contribute to a communitywide healthy atmosphere in Carmel.

As we build a more civil Carmel, the science is clear: gratitude isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a must-have foundation for community wellbeing. By understanding and applying these research findings, we can create lasting positive change in our community, one grateful interaction at a time.