Thanksgiving - The Fourth Thursday of November
Yesterday was my first Thanksgiving in America. It wasn’t the food that struck me the most—though the abundance of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie was unlike anything I had experienced—it was the genuine sense of togetherness, warmth, and joy. What united everyone was a shared celebration of gratitude.
It wasn’t about exchanging gifts or grand gestures. Instead it was a simple yet powerful tradition of acknowledging life’s blessings. I love that!
This too is the beauty of gratitude—it’s universal, unifying, and transformative. If Thanksgiving can extend beyond a single day into a daily and cultural practice, imagine the impact on our minds, hearts, communities and the world! Even the conversations, heated discussions and the act of 'war' would become a mute point...! (we have some way to go...so we keep praying for peace!).
The Science of Gratitude and the Brain
Gratitude does more than warm the heart; it reshapes the brain. Studies show that practicing gratitude activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters linked to happiness and well-being. Regular expressions of gratitude strengthen neural pathways, enhance emotional resilience, and improve overall mental health...at no cost!
In essence, gratitude is like a workout for your brain, promoting neuroplasticity and fostering a healthier, more adaptive mind. When practiced consistently (consistency is the key!), it can reduce stress, improve relationships, and even boost physical health.
Thanksgiving, with its focus on thankfulness, provides these same brain benefits. But what if we didn’t limit this practice to one day? What if gratitude became an integral part of our lives, a culture rather than an occasional activity?
Reflect and Engage
As we reflect on Thanksgiving and its emphasis on gratitude, let’s consider what it could mean to live a life steeped in thankfulness. Imagine a world where we regularly acknowledged the people, moments, and opportunities that enrich our lives. What could we accomplish with healthier minds, stronger connections, and an abundance mindset?
I encourage you to take a moment today to practice gratitude. Write down three things you’re thankful for, share them with someone, or simply sit quietly and appreciate your breath. Small actions like these aren’t just good for your brain—they’re good for your soul.
Thanksgiving is a reminder of what’s possible when gratitude takes center stage. Let’s carry that spirit forward, not just as an annual tradition but as a way of life…your new way of life.
Today and every day:
#IChoose to embrace gratitude daily and allow it to transform my perspective
#IChoose to see the blessings in every moment - big and small
#IChoose to make gratitude my lifelong practice and not just a once in a 365day tradition
With Gratitude
Annabel
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