About a year ago, our team member Maude and her family made the exciting journey from the USA to New Zealand. In celebration of her American heritage and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, we thought it would be fitting to reflect on what we're thankful for this year.
Beyond the cultural exchange, there's more to gratitude than just a festive tradition. Research in psychology has delved into the health benefits of practising gratitude, emphasising the importance of acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives. The findings are compelling: participants in studies who actively “counted their blessings” experienced notable decreases in anxiety and depression. Simultaneously, there was an uplifting boost in self-esteem and improved sleep quality.
What's particularly interesting is how gratitude can play a role in the challenging moments of caretaking and parenting. Amidst the chaos and demands, taking a moment to appreciate the small victories, the laughter, and the moments of connection can be a game-changer. Whatever difficulty and stress you are faced with, finding gratitude during these difficult times can provide a perspective shift, making the tough moments a bit more manageable.
As we approach this season of gratitude, let's not only honour our traditions but also embrace the well-being that stems from appreciating the goodness around us!
