“It is not happiness that makes us grateful. It’s gratefulness that makes us happy” – David Steindl-Rast
As an adult, Thanksgiving has become my favorite holiday. It’s never been about the food; I don’t adore turkey or mashed potatoes or the various fixings. I appreciate Thanksgiving because it is simply a day set aside for gratitude. It is a day to gather with loved ones, break bread together, and be thankful for the good in our lives and our worlds.
In a fast-paced world overly deluged with often negative information, it can be difficult to step back and be grateful for the little things that make our lives pleasurable. Today, I chose to be grateful because my sons come home from college tomorrow. My cat took a nap on my chest while I drank my coffee, purring when I put my hand on his back. The cold weather brought out my softest sweater, and I feel cozy wearing it. I give thanks and my spirits are lifted.
Finding gratitude actually pays off. There is a growing body of credible research supporting the healing power of being grateful. Giving thanks improves sleep, lowers stress levels, and improves relationships. It can reduce depression, alleviate trauma and anxiety, and improve mood and concentration.
The practice of being grateful doesn’t mean we ignore or negate our legitimate struggles. As a therapist, I would never support brushing real issues under the rug. We should recognize and address our tribulations but having gratitude despite them is a powerful tool for feeling better. Finding gratitude in the darkness can be life-changing.
Dr. Laurie Santos, a psychology professor and host of “The Happiness Lab” podcast, heavily endorses the practice of gratitude in her classes on well-being and happiness at Yale. “It is one of the practices that really win out from the field of positive psychology”, she says. The practice of gratitude takes very little time, is accessible and free, and “the benefits are so powerful.”
In the name of healing, we at The Guidance Center are giving thanks this week and every week thereafter. Despite these challenging times, we appreciate our friends and supporters for all they do for our agency and the clients and families we serve. Thank you for lifting our spirits and being a part of our journey to well-being.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all.
