Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.

Of course, it's partly because of the stuffing, turkey and all the fabulous side dishes, but mostly because I don't need to stress about buying presents.

What I do love is the presence of family and of giving thanks.

Practicing gratitude each day is impactful in our lives.  According to Najma Khorrami, M.P.H., "Gratitude makes us feel valued and, in turn, improves self-esteem and self-value. The results are likely to include decreases in anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress, and increases in self-worth, motivation, productivity, achievement, and more."

Any single day of any year, there is something to be happy about. It is a sign of wisdom to at least take a glance at that something and even for a moment to smile and be grateful ~Jane Stavoe

This quote from my friend's mom is so simple yet powerful.

Are we looking at what is happening during our day to be grateful?  Even just a small, simple moment?

This study had participants write gratitude letters, "and they reported significantly better mental health four weeks and 12 weeks after the writing exercise ended. This study suggests that gratitude writing can be beneficial not just for healthy, well-adjusted individuals but also for those who struggle with mental health concerns. It seems practicing gratitude on top of receiving psychological counseling carries greater benefits than counseling alone, even when that gratitude practice is brief."

A daily gratitude practice is far more beneficial than just during November! Every day, find a bit of time to journal, write a thank you note, or just say thank you.

When in doubt, say thank you.  There is no downside.  Are you honestly worried about showing too much gratitude to the people in your life?" ~James Clear