Bring the “Thanks” Back to Thanksgiving

November is the one month designated to giving thanks. We gather around the table during the eleventh month of the year with close relatives surrounded by great food and family traditions. But the real reason behind the season is not to eat until we stuff ourselves (seriously, it’s not!), but it’s so we can pause to remember all the blessings we have in our lives.

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays we can easily become stressed, tired, and quite frankly--miserable. This is the time when our nerves are easily frazzled. Next time you’re feeling frazzled, try this: slow down and remember to acknowledge all the things and people in your life that make you feel grateful. 

What is gratitude?

Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what you receive whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, you acknowledge the goodness in your life. In the process of doing so, you recognize that the source of that goodness lies partially outside yourself and helps you to connect to something larger than your individual experience. Gratitude helps people feel more positive, build stronger relationships with others, and have better overall health.

Here are just a few things I am grateful for this year!

• I do work that I love and I look forward to tackling every single day
• I have an amazing husband and two healthy, smart kids
• My parents are still together and I love to see them with their only grandchildren and the joy it brings
• I always have a pantry full of healthy food
• I have friends who I can count on when I need them
• I am able to pay my bills on time
• I have the opportunity to help people improve their lives with a few simple diet changes

Take time to pause and reflect this season on what you are grateful for. It will help bring the “thanks” back into Thanksgiving!

What are three things you are grateful for this holiday season?