jackiedoherty.org

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22nd November 2007

Thankful every day

posted in Just life |

It seems appropriate on Thanksgiving Day to think about the many things we’re thankful for (instead of complaining all the time), but why not take it a step further and think about the concept of thankfulness as a part of everyday life?  In fact, studies have shown that thankfulness is a healthy habit.  Not only does thankfulness improve your general attitude, but it has physical benefits as well. If you look at the research, the benefits are amazing. From the study, which is dense with psychological language, the findings show that “participants in the grateful conditon felt better about their lives as a whole and were more optimistic about the future….In addition, (they) reported fewer health complaints and even said that they spent more time exercising than control participants.”

So, here’s our challenge to you: Beginning now, take a moment each day to name at least one thing you’re thankful for that day–maybe do it right before drifting off to sleep or while sitting in traffic or in line at the grocery. It doesn’t have to be complicated or detailed: You could be thankful that the sun is shining, that you’re sitting in traffic rather than in a car accident, that your children are healthy. (You get the idea.) The point is a moment of giving thanks every day. Try it for a month and if the research proves accurate in your own life, you will be happier and healthier for it. Oh, by the way, Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Jackie and Margaret

There are currently 9 responses to “Thankful every day”

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  1. 1 On November 22nd, 2007, Amanda said:

    I’m thankful for my family and friends who Love Me and who I Love!!! Also that I’ll be graduating in 3 weeks :-)

  2. 2 On November 22nd, 2007, Debi said:

    I am thankful for my wonderful family, their health and happiness. I am thankful that they can all be here for the holidays. I am thankful for my husband of 28 years through the many phases of our life, babies, adolescents, college, and adult children with many more phases in the future to enjoy. Thanks Jackie for reminding me to be grateful.

  3. 3 On November 22nd, 2007, Jay said:

    It’s Thanksgiving and my belly is full, my wife is happy and my children are growing in body and mind. I have energy and health. Everywhere I look there is promise and opportunity. My friends are close by and still fiesty and capable of knocking me off my sometimes high horse. I am humbled by my good fortune and the forgiveness I have had extended to me in this life. Here’s wishing you and yours the best of the best. Or if not, the strength and patience to get you thru…

  4. 4 On November 22nd, 2007, Shawn said:

    I am thankful for life and food. I love food and I am glad that everyone needs it to survive because it is good and thx everyone for life.. it’s good too

  5. 5 On November 22nd, 2007, Mason said:

    I am thankful for my health and the fact that there is no school tommorow. HAPPY HOLIDAYS :)

  6. 6 On November 22nd, 2007, D. C. said:

    I am thankful for my family, my friends, my supportive husband and all that life has to offer. I thank God for everything he has given us including this beautiful earth. We all need to take time to be grateful for what we have and try to help others.

  7. 7 On November 22nd, 2007, Diane said:

    I am most thankful for my family and friends (old and new). It’s a comforting feeling to know they are always there. We sometimes take things for granted and always think there will be a tomorrow. We all need to be thankful on a daily basis.

  8. 8 On November 22nd, 2007, Jen said:

    I am thankful for being able to write this today. Being able to live, laugh and love. I am thankful for being brought up in such a warm and comforting family, with a loving mom and dad, and awesome siblings!

  9. 9 On November 23rd, 2007, Margaret said:

    This is late, but I, too, am thankful for my supportive husband, my smart and funny son, my family, and friends who are like a family to me. I enjoy watching their kids grow up along with my own, and I am grateful to be a part of their lives. I am also thankful for the fact that there is always room at the table for new friends – Bill, Joe, Angela, Helen and baby Laura. And thanks to Bruce and Mary for their incredible hospitality and the best turkey ever!

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