As we prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s an opportune time to pause and reflect on the significance of “being thankful.” Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset, an approach to life that emphasizes positive thinking and appreciation for the world around us. Practicing gratitude isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about creating a shift in our mental perspective. By focusing on the positive, we can counteract our brain’s natural tendency to spotlight the negative, a phenomenon known as negativity bias.

This shift towards positivity can significantly improve our mental health, fostering resilience, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and promoting overall well-being. Studies have shown that gratitude can lead to increased happiness, improved sleep, and even stronger immune systems.

The Thanksgiving holiday provides an ideal backdrop for friends and families to express gratitude collectively, reinforcing family bonds and promoting a positive family environment. When gratitude is practiced as a family, it creates a shared understanding of appreciation and positivity, fostering healthier communication and emotional connections. Gratitude, like any other skill, requires practice. Read on for a few simple tools you can incorporate on Thanksgiving and into your daily life to cultivate gratitude.

1. Gratitude Share: Go around the table (every day and during the holidays!) and have each person express 1 thing they are grateful for. This can be from the day, the week or in a broader sense such as experiences, people or pets.
2. Gratitude Journal: Dedicate a few minutes each day to write down what you’re thankful for. It may be as simple as a warm cup of coffee in the morning or as profound as love from your family.
3. Gratitude Letters: Write a letter of gratitude to someone who has made a positive impact in your life. You can choose to send it or keep it for yourself as a reminder of the people who have helped shape your life.
4. Mindful Meditation: Spend a few minutes each day in quiet reflection, focusing on the present moment and acknowledging the positive aspects of your life.
5. Gratitude Jar: Keep a jar in a common area of your home where family members can drop notes of what they’re grateful for. Make it a tradition to read these notes together during family gatherings.
6. Gratitude Walks: Take a walk and make a conscious effort to appreciate the beauty and positivity around you.

Acknowledging the goodness in our lives often allows us to recognize that the source of that goodness extends beyond ourselves, creating a sense of connection with others and the world at large. As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let’s remember the power of gratitude and the significant role it plays in our mental health. Make it a goal to carry this practice with you beyond the holiday season, turning gratitude from a Thanksgiving tradition into a daily practice as we express our thanks for the blessings in our lives.