This season often brings a busy mix of school events, travel prep, and holiday planning. Gratitude seems simple, but the science behind it is powerful, and it can make the season feel lighter.
Gratitude literally changes your brain
Research shows that intentionally focusing on the good activates areas of the brain linked to calm, emotional regulation, and resilience. It shifts your nervous system out of “fight-or-flight” and into “rest-and-digest.”
Simple ways to build gratitude into daily life
- The 3-item rule: Write down three small things you appreciated today: warm coffee, good conversation, sunshine.
- Say it out loud: thanking a partner or child strengthens the connection.
- Pause before eating: one deep breath and a quick “thank you for this meal” slows your heart rate and digestion.
Why does it help during the holiday rush
Stress shows up physically: tight shoulders, headaches, worry, poor sleep. Gratitude interrupts the stress cycle and grounds you in the present moment instead of the next deadline.
When gratitude isn’t enough
If stress is showing up as chest tightness, anxiety, irritability, or changes in sleep and appetite, it’s time to check in with your doctor. Gratitude helps but you don’t have to push through burnout alone.
Feeling overwhelmed? Schedule a mental health check-in. We’ll help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
