Attention, Blazers! The holiday food and festivities are almost here, but let’s not overlook the meaning of the most wonderful time of the year.
Every fourth Thursday of November, families across the United States gather around a table with a golden roasted turkey in the center while side dishes and delectable desserts surround it. This national holiday is known as Thanksgiving and is celebrated to give thanks and share gratitude amongst friends and family. While its meaning is very purposeful, many people have begun to put more of an emphasis on the food involved in the holiday and less emphasis on giving thanks.
It is necessary to let your friends and family know you’re thankful for them. Studies show that giving thanks is beneficial for both the receiving and giving parties. According to U.S. psychologists Sara Algoe and Baldwin Way, appreciation can lead to prevalent connections. The clarification may be related to extended production of oxytocin, also known as the “bonding hormone” since it develops calmness and security in connections. By showing gratitude this allows you to build stronger bonds in relationships and feel assured.
During this time it is encouraged to think outside of the box about people, opportunities, obstacles you have overcome, and times that you are thankful for.Taking a moment to fully open your heart and share your gratitude can make all the difference. Spread, love, joy and positivity because no matter what life throws at you, it is important to look at the glass as half full rather than half empty.
Here are some benefits that come from being thankful and showing gratitude.
- Eat healthier
- Develop stronger immune systems
- Experience more energy
- Demonstrate optimism and mental acuity
- Cope with stress better
- Describe life with high satisfaction
- Exercise regularly
- Solve difficult mental challenges easier
- Have deeper friendships
- Sleep better
- Have increased self-worth and self-esteem
- Show increased productivity
- Enjoy work and perform better on the job
Thanksgiving is more than yummy food and fun activities. It’s about spreading gratitude and reminding people how much they mean to you. This national holiday can also be extended to your everyday life. Anytime is the perfect time to spread thanks and appreciation.
What better way to kick-off practicing your appreciation than joining the Campus Rec for Thankful Thursday. Thankful Thursday is a social wellness event where students will have the opportunity to write a thank-you card to their friends, family, or any other person that they’r e thankful for. The event will be held on Thursday, November 21 from 11 AM- 2 PM in the Student Union Rotunda.
We hope to see you there!
Written By: Kayla Pool
