The Surprising Power of Gratitude On Your Stress

Are you experiencing any pre-holiday frenzy? In conversations with and observations of clients, friends, family, and strangers, the added stress experienced this time of year is noticeable. We’re either preparing to host or preparing to be hosted. Both can involve planning, organizing, shopping, cooking, and traveling. Even the most grounded among us can feel pressured and on edge. I had an interesting discovery this week that I’d like to share with you.

In preparation for Thanksgiving, I was running some errands. The parking lots were crowded, as were the stores. The traffic jams in the store aisles were met on the other side with long, slow check out lines. Navigating through the sea of people was tiring. I couldn’t wait to leave the crowds and return home.

As I exited the last store, the sun was setting. The clouds and sky were gorgeous shades of blue, orange and pink. I stopped, breathed slowly, and soaked in the visual feast that nature offered.

This pause helped alleviate my stress and focus on feelings of gratitude. Instead of feeling frazzled, I thought about the joy of having the family together at our house for Thanksgiving. The magnificent fall sky worked it’s magic.

There is so much to be grateful for. What are you noticing? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Come join the conversation.