Thanksgiving is upon us, and in many households that comes with time-honoured traditions of turkey dinners, family gatherings and time spent outside in the crisp autumn air. From a mindfulness perspective, Thanksgiving also presents an opportunity to give thanks for all that we have in our lives, no matter the circumstances.
There are many benefits to being thankful that extend beyond the common courtesies of expressing gratitude and being kind. Being thankful is actually good for the soul. There are many studies that show that being thankful leads to greater happiness, improved health, stronger resiliency and more caring relationships. These are some incredibly powerful outcomes for a relatively simple gesture.
We can all strengthen our ability to be thankful and reap the benefits of a happier and healthier body and mind – here’s how (summarized from “8 Ways To Have More Gratitude Everyday” by Janet Miller):
- Don’t be picky: appreciate everything
- Find gratitude in your challenges
- Practice mindfulness
- Keep a gratitude journal
- Volunteer
- Express your gratitude to others
- Spend time with loved ones
- Improve happiness in other areas of your life with exercise, hobbies
I invite you to take time this Thanksgiving weekend to pause, reflect, enjoy and embrace all the traditions you hold dear while finding opportunities within each to express your thankfulness. My thanks to all of you for a great start to the school year, for your support of our teachers and programs, and for choosing TCS. Enjoy your long weekend!
