LET’S GIVE THANKS
With the holiday season upon us, it is a great time to reflect on the things in life we are thankful for. Practicing gratitude postures our mood to focus on what we have rather than the cultural consumerism driven “needs.” It helps us be mindful of the good in our lives and can breed contentment.
Robert Emmons explains the two components to gratitude as first “an affirmation of goodness. We affirm that there are good things in the world, gifts and benefits we’ve received,” and secondly, “we recognize that the sources of this goodness are outside of ourselves. … We acknowledge that other people—or even higher powers, if you’re of a spiritual mindset—gave us many gifts, big and small, to help us achieve the goodness in our lives.”
So as the hustle and bustle of the holidays ensue, take time each day to reflect on 10 things, big or small, each day that you are thankful for allowing your mind to begin to develop a healthy coping skill of giving thanks in all circumstances and moods. Beginning this practice now will also go a long way with managing post-holiday blues and New Year stressors.
