Stuck in line at the DMV? Come down with a nasty cold? Watch another piece of upsetting news?
Sometimes life hits us…hard! In today’s crazy world it’s easy to be drawn to all the negativity that surrounds us. But even when we’re feeling completely anxious and overwhelmed, we all still have so much to be thankful for. And just thinking about what we’re grateful for is one of the simplest ways to reduce stress.
The Benefits of Giving Thanks
Giving thanks doesn’t just make you feel good. There are actually scientific studies that show that a gratitude practice can provide a host of mental and physical health benefits. In fact, expressing gratitude may actually be as good for you as eating your greens every day!
Gratitude:
- Reduces stress
- Decreases anxiety
- Boosts your mood
- Increases confidence
- Improves your relationships
- Lifts your spirits and energy
With Thanksgiving coming up, I’ve been thinking a lot about all the things I’m grateful for, like friends and family, great clients, healthy food, and fresh air.
It’s all about the simple pleasures; and that’s why a gratitude practice is so powerful. It doesn’t matter if you’ve had a bad day or a rough year, there are likely still plenty of blessings in your life. So why not count them?
3 Ways to Reduce Stress and Express Gratitude
There are multiple ways to create a healthy gratitude practice. For me, I like to think about all the things I’m grateful for while I do my evening stretches or after I walk my dogs. The key is to let the practice fit seamlessly into your life so it will stick—and so it won’t add any stress to your day.
Here are 3 ways to reduce stress this Thanksgiving (and beyond)…
- Write a Note: Write a handwritten thank you note and mail it to someone you love, a neighbor, or a new friend. Try this once a week or any time you feel a little overwhelmed.
- Make a List: Buy a beautiful notebook or journal. Jot down all the things you have to be grateful for as soon as you wake up or before you go to bed. It’s the perfect way to start or end your day.
- Give Thanks: Say a little statement of gratitude before eating a meal. If you’re with a group or at a holiday dinner, take turns sharing one thing you’re grateful for. In addition to the benefits listed above, slowing down before a meal also improves digestion!
What are you grateful for? Head over to Instagram and share one thing you’re grateful for. We can’t wait to hear from you!
PS: Need help getting Thanksgiving dinner on the table? Click here to learn about our Thanksgiving Catering services. It’s just another way to reduce stress this season!
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