Making room for (Thanks)giving

Halloween has passed and the Holiday season has coming. Ready or not, Christmas music is playing in the stores and many people I know have started putting up their trees, which seems to be a pretty polarizing topic on the internet when discussed what is “acceptable” or not. (Another blog post, another day, perhaps).

Whether your tree is up or the ornaments and lights are staying in the box until Black Friday, many of us can still appreciate the gathering and overindulging of turkey (or are you team ham?), all things carbs, and numerous types of pies or all things pumpkin (yep, I’m basic). But at a time of year when hustle and bustle, and chaos and commercialism threaten to take over our already busy lives, November, and the Thanksgiving holiday can be a reminder to focus on thanks.

The practice of being thankful plays a huge role in our mindset in our day to day life, which in turn impacts our emotions, feelings and actions. When we can name the things (not just the big basics like family, friends, etc.) that are specific and small but that we appreciate, it helps our brain to more easily identify positive thoughts. The more positive thoughts, the more likely we are to feel good feelings.

This month I encourage you to try to name at least 1-3 things you are grateful for each day. Try to think of new things each day. Be specific and take time to think about why these things are important to you. Gratitude is the best attitude, and attitude is everything.

With kindness and love,

Anna