November is National Gratitude Month, a time to celebrate and give thanks. Reflecting on that for which we are grateful, is an important way for people to feel satisfaction with themselves and current state, rather than dissatisfaction with what they don’t have.
This kind of reflection and giving of thanks are also powerful strategies to boosting self-wellness.
The Harvard Medical School highlights the findings of studies that show the power of gratitude.
“In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.”
Ways to Show Gratitude
Showing gratitude can make you feel better about your life, manage mental health problems like depression and anxiety, improve self-esteem and sleep, lower your stress and more. Sounds great.
But what are some of the ways to do this?
- Say something nice to someone—a compliment, a word of thanks or recognition.
- Write your gratitude as a letter or in a notebook/journal
- Show your gratitude with a gift
- Invite someone to spend time with you
Canvas Health can offer support for these strategies, as well as formal therapy. For questions about in-person and telehealth services or to make an appointment, please call (651) 777-5222 or email intake@canvashealth.org.