Thankfulness

When I’m worried and I can’t sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

Perhaps you recognize these lyrics written by Irving Berlin and sung by Bing Crosby in the movie White Christmas. Counting our blessings before we sleep seems like age-old wisdom. Recent psychological research has demonstrated the emotional, cognitive and sleep benefits of a regular practice of gratitude.

Although Thanksgiving is now behind us, the practice of “giving thanks” each day benefits our own well-being and peace of mind. I believe and have often said that “there is always something to be grateful for, even on our worst days.” Choosing to give thanks–even if it is for one moment, or for one solitary glimpse of beauty or one fleeting memory–can help reduce depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Cardiac health and improved sleep are also benefits attributed to taking the time each day to focus on gratitude. Joshua Brown and Joel Wong, of Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, recently completed a study which “showed greater activation in the medial prefrontal cortex when they experienced gratitude in the fMRI scanner.” The authors conclude that “Simply expressing gratitude may have lasting effects on the brain.”

Expressing gratitude seems like the “polite” and ordinary thing to do: something we were probably taught to do as children. Yet when we are upset, we may not be inclined to be grateful. For those who are are grieving and may be anticipating a dreary holiday season, may I invite you to take time each and every day to write down (at least) three things that you are grateful for. Perhaps focus on the love that you did share with the person you have lost, the memories that you cherish, or the simple beauty outside your window. Perspectives and feelings will change when we focus on what we are grateful for.

I am thankful for you dear reader, and the courage you have to journey through what is often a difficult time.