Tag: gratitude

Giving Thanks Is Good for You

Posted on by Jordank

Thankfulness is ingrained in the #Thanksgiving holiday. Most people consider how lucky they are to enjoy such a bountiful meal; they may also think about the many other things for which they are #thankful — things as simple as having a roof over one’s head, family and friends.

Expressing #gratitude is a healthy habit, according to Harvard Health. Studies show that focusing on the positive aspects of one’s life can improve well-being, strengthen relationships and encourage a sense of optimism.

Mental health encourages physical health, too. Study subjects asked to write down moments of gratitude every week exercised more and had fewer doctor’s visits than those asked to detail their aggravations or annoyances. Gratitude is good for you!

There is no wrong way to give #thanks. You can write down a few things that you are #thankful for at the end of the day, or simply review them in your thoughts. They can be everyday things or big-picture concepts; the trick is to highlight the positives.

Over time, thankfulness creates a mindset of gratitude — “an appreciation for all that life brings, good and bad,” says Tony Robbins. “When you not only have Thanksgiving gratitude but also gratitude for life itself, you’ll find fulfillment in life.”

Giving Can Be Its Own Reward

Posted on by Jordank

Evolutionary theory dictates that gratitude and generosity are linked, Greater Good says, and those who give generously receive in kind and are more likely to survive. So as you begin to shop the #BlackFriday deals online and in person, remember to share some of your good fortune in the spirit of #Thanksgiving. Take some shelf-stable goods or wrapped toys to a holiday drop-off location, #donate a few dollars to your favorite #charity, or schedule a free #donation #pickup of lightly used clothing and household goods to ClothingDonations.org. “Emphasize the giving, and the thanks will follow.”

Being Present Is a Great Way to Give Thanks

Posted on by Jordank

Showing #gratitude on #Thanksgiving Day might mean simply being present after two years of pandemic and cancelled plans. Set aside the smartphone and other distractions and get involved in the festivities. Practice mindfulness to keep the holiday stress-free, Chopra.com says, and enjoy the feast without overeating. “If you have a habit of shoveling food into your mouth during meals — whether it’s because you’re in a hurry, chatting with someone during the meal, or letting your mind wander about aimlessly — it may take some effort for you to slow down and notice each bite. But when you do, you will have a much better culinary experience.”

Sharing Gratitude and Goodwill on Thanksgiving

Posted on by Jordank

As you prepare your #Thanksgiving feast, etiquette expert Maralee McKee suggests you find ways for you and your guests to offer their gratitude around the table. You may wish to start the meal with an inspirational reading, or offer a (brief) toast before dessert. You can go around the table to get guests’ personal thanks, or create a “gratitude tree” of written comments. To really make the season shine, she says, go beyond simply counting your own blessings and share that goodwill, she says: “Be the person who makes it her job to make sure she’s the bright spot in someone else’s day.” #Thanksgiving

How to Express Gratitude on Thanksgiving

Posted on by Jordank

There are plenty of options for giving #thanks and showing #gratitude as the #holiday season, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution says. Volunteer with a local charitable organization, invite a holiday “orphan” to your dinner table or make an extra meal to give a family in need. At the feast, suggest that everyone share a memory that expresses gratitude (or have them write it down and add it to a Thanksgiving tree to avoid performance anxiety). If you have more money and #stuff than time, consider giving a donation of cash or used goods to ClothingDonations.org, where the proceeds will help fund essential #veterans programs. #Thanksgiving