The holiday season presents an excellent opportunity to practice gratitude and give thanks for the positives in your life. Did you know that expressing gratitude stimulates the brain to release dopamine, often called the “feel-good” chemical? Acknowledging the small wins in life can help fight symptoms of depression, low mood and anxiety by allowing you to see your situation from a different perspective.
Start combating holiday stress by cultivating an attitude of gratitude with some of the tips below.
Name three positives every morning. Try naming a memory, friendship, hobby or other aspect of your life that you are glad you have. Starting your morning with a positive reminder of what brings you happiness can set the tone for your whole day.
Show appreciation for those around you. During family gatherings or holiday dinners, let those around you know how much you appreciate them. Try thanking them for a gift, or go a step further by purchasing a thank-you card.
Savor what you enjoy. The holidays can be a busy time of year, and it can be tempting to rush through events. Try slowing down and savoring moments that bring you joy. This could be anything from a festive meal, time with friends or family or shopping for gifts.
Remind yourself of your blessings. Finding reasons to be grateful when the holidays feel stressful isn’t easy. Try looking at the big picture or acknowledging even the smallest of wins. Are there individuals that you are looking forward to seeing? Do you have a roof over your head and food to eat? Think about the last time someone showed you kindness. All these things can help you find something to be grateful for.
Volunteer. Many charities, such as food banks and homeless shelters, need extra holiday help. Volunteering can help you gain perspective and focus less on your own life and more on others. This shift in thinking will help you be grateful for what you have while easing stress related to your concerns.
Whether you share your thanks with others verbally or write it in a journal, cultivating gratitude can help you stay positive amid holiday busyness.