Not Everyone is in a Season of Gratitude

Dear Readers,

As we step into Thanksgiving week, I want to share a heartfelt message about gratitude—how it can be a lifeline in combating anxiety and a transformative force in our lives.

Before diving into the how of practicing gratitude, let me share a powerful truth that might surprise you: gratitude and anxiety cannot coexist. Yes, there’s scientific evidence that shows gratitude has the ability to neutralize anxiety. When we choose gratitude, even as a discipline, we disrupt the grip of fear, sadness, or overwhelm.

I understand firsthand how difficult it can be to reach for gratitude when your heart feels heavy, your mind is racing, or you’re overwhelmed by grief. In those moments, your feelings might rebel against thankfulness. But here’s the secret: when you lead your feelings instead of letting your feelings lead you, something amazing happens. Say it out loud, write it down, or offer a quiet prayer of thanks—right there in the midst of your discomfort. The power of gratitude can begin to calm the storm inside.

Shelli, this is too hard. I just can’t.

One of my favorites, Dr. Caroline a leading neuroscientist spearheading research on psychoneurobiology,  explains that gratitude literally rewires our brains. It interrupts the cycle of anxiety by releasing neurotransmitters and neurohormones that boost mood, enhance focus, improve clarity, and activate positive energy throughout your mind and body. This isn’t just emotional—it's biological. Gratitude helps us heal.

I know what you might be thinking: Shelli, this is too hard. I just can’t.
Yes, you can.
You are so much stronger than you realize.

Even if it feels impossible at first, each time you choose gratitude, you’re building resilience, hope, and strength. To help you get started, here are some practical tips and benefits to inspire your gratitude journey.

7 Benefits of Gratitude

1. Opens doors to more meaningful relationships

2. Improves physical health

3. Boosts psychological well-being

4. Enhances empathy and reduces aggression

5. Leads to better sleep quality

6. Improves self-esteem

7. Increases mental fortitude

How to Cultivate Gratitude in Your Life

1. Start a Gratitude Journal
   Set a timer for just three minutes and write everything you’re thankful for—even if it’s the same thing over and over. When I began practicing gratitude years ago, I even wrote about blessings I hoped for as if they’d already happened. For example: Thank you for the abundance in my finances, relationships, and health. Let your imagination flow and dream big with gratitude!

2. Verbally Express Gratitude to Others
   Recently, I was feeling down and decided to text four friends, letting them know how much they meant to me. It brightened their day and mine, shifting my mindset almost instantly.

3. Write Thank-You Notes
   Take a moment to write a note to someone who has impacted your life. It’s a simple yet profound way to create connection and spread kindness.

4. Volunteer
   Serving others is one of the most direct ways to feel gratitude. Giving your time to someone in need reminds you of the blessings in your own life.

5. Try a Gratitude Meditation
   A guided gratitude meditation can help calm your mind and anchor you in thankfulness.

6. Flip the Script During Tough Moments
   Even in the middle of a tearful moment or a “pity party,” try something radical: say, Thank you for this pain. It may sound counterintuitive, but this act of surrender and acknowledgment can shift your perspective and remind you of your own strength.

Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it’s an opportunity to reset our hearts and minds toward gratitude. I hope these ideas inspire you to cultivate thankfulness, not just this week, but every day.

Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and abundant gratitude.

Wishing you SO MUCH Love,
Shelli