The definition of gratitude is a feeling of appreciation or thanks. In our often fast paced and plugged in world, it is easy to focus on what we don’t yet have and lose our appreciation for what we do. As we enter this holiday season, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to pause to reflect on our current work-life-family mix and feel appreciation for what works in that mix. By doing so, we may be empowered to change the parts that are not yet where we would like them to be. As holidays may bring high levels of stress and expectation along with fun and celebration, here are three suggestions for focusing on gratitude, which is key to individual thriving:
(1) Eat turkey! Now this should be easy to do on Thanksgiving to naturally elevate your mood and make your sleep more restful. Turkey contains Tryptophan which is one of the 10 essential amino acids that the body uses to synthesize the proteins it needs. It’s well-known for its role in the production of nervous system messengers, especially those related to relaxation, restfulness, and sleep. (Check out more foods containing Tryptophan.) Therefore, if we well rested and of good disposition, we are inclined to be more positive and thankful.
(2) Express gratitude in a group! Consider starting a family tradition centered on sharing gratitude. Harvard Medical School has found that “Research (and common sense) suggests that one aspect of the Thanksgiving season can actually lift the spirits, and it’s built right into the holiday — expressing gratitude.” Listening to how others express gratitude triggers thankfulness within each of us. The study further finds, “With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, gratitude also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or a higher power.” In our family, at the Thanksgiving table, each member of the family from youngest to oldest shares something that he or she is thankful for in the past year. Some of the comments make us laugh, while others nearly cry. Please take a few minutes this Thanksgiving to share your gratitude with others, it will benefit everyone.
(3) Never underestimate the power of friendship. In the NY Times article What Are Friends For? A Longer Life, the author explores the powerful relationship between friendship and overall health. Strong friendships have been directly linked to lower stress levels, which has translated to better physical and psychological health. This is a perfect time of year to express gratitude for those friends that are essential in your life. You will benefit from the expression of gratitude as well as further cement the relationship going forward. I take this moment to thank my “twin,” a dear friend who is 5’10” to my nearly tippy toes 5’3″ who keeps me above the fray with her unwavering optimism and contagious laughter.
Join me this Thanksgiving to express gratitude for all that is around us. In return, we may each “feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve [our] health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.” What are we waiting for?
Wishing you and yours a very happy turkey day!
