Thanksgiving has officially come and gone. The holiday is typically a time where we reflect on things in our life we are grateful for. However, why should we limit gratitude to just one day? Let’s keep it going past the holiday season because gratitude has specific health benefits and effects—that those around us and ourselves included need.
The power of positive thinking can be make such a difference. A research study indicated that a group was instructed to write five things they were grateful for once a week. After ten consecutive weeks, the experiment showed that the individuals also increased their daily exercise time and were more likely to attend regular health check-ups than those who did not participate in the journal reflection.
What are ways you can bring gratitude to your life past the holiday season? We’ve listed some options below:
- Utilize a gratitude journal
- Practice meditation
- Write or verbalize three things you’re grateful for each night
- Smile more often
- Notice nature’s beauty
- Post positive quotes or images
- Focus on your strengths
- Volunteer
It is important to remember that reflecting on gratitude can be big or little things. Whatever it is, allow yourself a moment to enjoy the positive experience despite any negative feelings. You can’t escape stress, but you can shift your perspective.
Happy Holidays!
