Tips for Practicing Gratitude this Holiday Season

According to Oxford Languages, gratitude is described as “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.”

Studies show that practicing acts of gratitude can reduce stress hormones in the body. Expressing gratitude can help an individual feel more at peace and are able to appreciate the things around them.

Being thankful is not only a nice action to benefit those around you receiving your gratitude, but it can also be a positive to the person who is doing the thanking.

Want to reap the benefits of gratitude but don't know where to begin? Try a few of these practices to help put your mind at ease.

1. Think about things you are grateful for. This may sound cliche but taking the time to really think about all of the blessings in your life can truly make a difference in your mood. Shifting your perspective to reflect on the good people and the positive things around you can increase your overall happiness and puts less focus on stress. One idea is to Start a Gratitude Journal.
2. Engage in practicing acts of service.  Doing something kind for someone else not only benefits those you're serving but you as well. Whether it be making a meal, donating clothing or volunteering at a shelter, practicing kindness towards others provides a sense of purpose and releases positive endorphins.
3. Reflect on past trials. Taking a moment to reflect on all of the hardships you have overcome is a great way to evoke gratitude. Being able to consider all of the trials you have persevered through is truly something to be grateful for!

These are just a few ways to practice gratitude this holiday season. Click here for additional ideas!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you to all our SIATech staff for everything you do for our students everyday!

As a reminder, due to the Thanksgiving Holiday, the Central Office will be closed from November 25-29. Our sites' schedules may vary, so be sure to check your school calendars for dates.