Living In The Know: “Thanks”giving

Current information to help you make informed parenting decisions. 

“Thanks”giving: How giving thanks can actually improve our mental health. We all talk about how to be thankful during this time of year. But, did you know that research shows that it can specifically improve your mood and relationship with others? Read on for some quick starter tips on how to give thanks.

1. Start small. Think of small things for which you are thankful, such as having a five minute break, sheets that feel good, a smile from a stranger, even a piece of candy. Both small and big thanks are important. Don’t overlook the small things.

2. Go big. Once you’ve identified small things, think a little bigger. Maybe you are thankful that your bills are paid, you have food on the table, a house, or a good relationship with someone.

3. Write it down. Keep a journal or a computer document. Keep it simple. Keep it short. Take less than 2 minutes to jot it down.

Feeling like a challenge? Here are some ways to expand.

4. Think of something that is bothering you in your life, maybe a relationship or a situation. Now, think of one thing for which you can be grateful related to that (i.e., maybe that person has done something nice for you or maybe you are grateful that you have a computer even if it is frustrating at times). 

5. Write it down. Write down one small thing about that person or that situation.

6. Now, do this every day. About anything. For as long as you can.