A HOPEFUL HEART â—½ YOU
Giving Thanks
By Christina Oberon
As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us take time to reflect on what we are thankful for, like family, health, friendships, and the simple joys of life. The holiday is a perfect moment to pause and appreciate the goodness around us. However, gratitude shouldn’t be something we practice only in November. Practicing giving thanks year-round can have great benefits on our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.
We all hear how gratitude is powerful. But gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset, a way of viewing the world through a lens of appreciation. When we focus on what we have, rather than what we lack, it shifts our perspective, making us more resilient in the face of challenges. Numerous studies have shown that practicing gratitude regularly can lead to lower stress levels, improved relationships, and even better sleep. I have personally experienced these benefits many times.
In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the turmoil and overlook the positives. We rush from task to task, often feeling like we’re not doing or achieving enough. We obsess over the news and world events. But taking a few moments each day to acknowledge what we’re thankful for can help break that cycle. It serves as a reminder that despite life’s difficulties, there are still countless reasons to be appreciative.
photo courtesy of Doug Gephardt
Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to express our thanks, but gratitude doesn’t have to be tied to a specific date on the calendar. It is my belief that incorporating it into our daily lives is essential for long-term happiness and fulfillment. Simple acts of thankfulness, such as keeping a gratitude journal or expressing appreciation to loved ones, can become habits that make a real difference.
Gratitude also helps us stay present. When we pause to reflect on what we’re grateful for, we’re anchoring ourselves in the moment, savoring the here and now. This is especially important in a world that often pushes us to constantly look toward the future. By practicing gratitude daily, we can counteract that pressure, finding joy in what we already have rather than constantly seeking more.
I try to integrate gratitude into my routine in different ways. I write down things I'm grateful for in my gratitude journal.
Whether it’s a quick text, a note, or in a conversation, I try to say, "Thank you" often. Expressing thanks to the people around me is a great feeling and creates stronger connections.
I also usually take a few minutes each night to reflect on something good that happened, no matter how minor. This has helped train my brain to focus on the positive aspects of life. Even during difficult times, there are things to be thankful for, like lessons learned, support received, or personal strength discovered.
An often overlooked thing about gratitude that I love is its ripple effect. When we practice gratitude, we not only improve our own well-being but also positively impact those around us. Gratitude is contagious. It spreads from person to person, forming a culture of kindness, appreciation, and respect. By making gratitude a daily practice, I believe we can create a ripple effect, improving our relationships, our communities, and ultimately, our world.
So, while Thanksgiving is a beautiful reminder to give thanks, let’s carry that spirit with us every day. Gratitude is a gift we can give ourselves and others year round.