Thanksgiving is a holiday, celebrated by some, centered around thankfulness. For some that
looks like celebrating with family, taking time off from work, and feasting on rich foods.
Even if you do not celebrate thanksgiving, the act of gratitude can positively impact your mental health over time. Research suggests that those that practice regular gratitude exercises have improved mental health over time.
A Simple Way to Practice Gratitude
One way to practice gratitude to increase mental health, is to make a list of things, and people you are grateful for. You may remember doing this in elementary school, and your list looked
something like this. A list of things that you are thankful for, usually then incorporated into a turkey or fall craft of some sort.
Well, as childish as it seems sometimes, reflecting on your life, and making a list of things you are thankful for increases you mood, distracts you from negative intrusive thoughts, and can relieve tension in your body.
Your list does not have to be on a turkey, you can make it as classy as you like, but I do encourage you do write them down. Seeing a list in front of you of the people who support you, and the things that you have achieved, and the amazing person you are can be beneficial (you can even post it on the fridge if you are feeling a bit child-like). Or maybe you keep a gratitude journal, and write down things and people you are thankful for on a daily basis.
My hope for you this week is that you are able to spend a moment reflecting on the things that bring you joy, and you feel grateful for. And maybe, if you keep that list, it will show up right when you need a little hope in the future.
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