Gratitude Practices
- Julie Roy
- Nov 3
- 1 min read
Unfortunately, our brain has a negativity bias, and the practice of gratitude can be a good antidote. To make a difference in our mood, gratitude needs to be felt realistically; we can not force ourselves to feel it, such as when someone tells us, “Oh, it could be worse”. Forced gratitude does not benefit us.
True gratitude should be felt in our bodies, such as when we lie down in our bed and feel the comfort and warmth. This practice of recognizing the feeling of gratitude can alleviate depression symptoms and improve our mood, even when we are experiencing hardship.
In November, many people find it helpful to really focus on this practice if they are not already. With the shorter daylight hours, many experience an increase in depression, and a gratitude practice may reduce its impact. Here are some ideas:
Daily Three: Write down three small things you’re grateful for each night. Consistency matters more than perfection.
Gratitude Jar: Have your family or team write notes of thanks and read them together at the end of the month.
Thank You Text: Send one message a day to someone you appreciate, or thank a colleague or service person. Bonus: it boosts their serotonin, too!
Mindful Moments: During your morning coffee or commute, name something you’re thankful for—no matter how small, even if it is your coffee day after day.
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