Tis the Season to Be Thankful!

By Alex Harris, PhD

As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts turn to Thanksgiving, a time to gather with loved ones, indulge in delicious feasts, and express gratitude for the people and circumstances in our lives. Beyond the mouth watering dishes and festive decorations, Thanksgiving carries a profound message — the importance of being thankful. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of being thankful, delving into the psychological benefits that extend far beyond the holiday season.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude is more than just a polite expression of thanks; it's a mindset that can positively impact our and others’ mental and emotional well-being. Research in positive psychology has shown that cultivating gratitude can lead to a range of psychological benefits, influencing both our mental and physical health.

Improved Mental Health

Expressing gratitude has been linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety (Chowdhury, 2019). When we focus on the positive aspects of our lives and acknowledge the good, it helps shift our mindset away from dwelling on problems. Grateful individuals tend to experience higher levels of life satisfaction and overall happiness.

Enhanced Emotional Resilience

Life is filled with challenges, but a grateful outlook can help build emotional resilience. Gratitude acts as a buffer against stress and adversity, enabling individuals to navigate difficulties with a more positive and hopeful perspective. It fosters the ability to bounce back from setbacks and find meaning in challenging situations.

Better Relationships

Thanksgiving is a time for coming together, and practicing gratitude strengthens our social bonds. When we express appreciation for others, it fosters a sense of connection and mutual respect. A simple text, call, compliment, or a handwritten letter can be effective ways to show your appreciation to others! Grateful individuals often report experiencing stronger and more fulfilling relationships with friends, family, and colleagues (Carpenter, n.d.).

Physical Health Benefits

The benefits of gratitude extend beyond the mind, positively impacting our physical health. Studies suggest that grateful individuals may experience lower blood pressure, improved immune function, and better sleep quality (Logan, 2022). The mind-body connection highlights the holistic impact of a grateful mindset.

Now that we understand the psychological benefits of gratitude, the question becomes: How can we prioritize it in our daily lives?

Keep a Gratitude Journal

Take a few minutes each day to reflect on and jot down things you are thankful for. This simple practice can shift your focus towards the positive aspects of your life (Carpenter, n.d.). 

Pro tip: Building this practice into your morning or evening routine can seamlessly integrate this habit into your life!

Express Appreciation

Don't keep your gratitude to yourself! Take the time to express appreciation to the people in your life. A heartfelt thank-you can go a long way in strengthening relationships.

Mindful Moments

Incorporate mindfulness into your routine. Take a moment to savor the small joys in life, whether it's a beautiful sunset, a warm cup of tea, or the laughter of loved ones.

As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, let's not only enjoy the delicious food but also embrace the spirit of gratitude. Beyond the holiday season, integrating gratitude into our daily lives can lead to a more positive and fulfilling existence. The psychological benefits of being thankful extend far beyond a single day, offering a pathway to improved mental and emotional well-being. This Thanksgiving, let's celebrate not only with a feast for the body but also with a feast for the soul — a feast of gratitude.

References:

Carpenter, D. (n.d.). The science behind gratitude (and how it can change your life). Happify. https://www.happify.com/hd/the-science-behind-gratitude/

Chowdhury, M. (2019, April 9). The neuroscience of gratitude and effects on the brain. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/

Logan, A. (2022, December 6). Can expressing gratitude improve your mental, physical health? Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/can-expressing-gratitude-improve-health