Gratitude is, first and foremost, a way of seeing that alters our gaze.
~ Robert Emmons, Gratitude scientist
For many people, the holiday of Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate the joy of connection. For some people, this holiday may bring up stress and anxiety. And for most, it is a combination of both. Cultivating gratitude is a beautiful and meaningful way to harness the joy of this holiday while calming our nerves.
Dr. Robert Emmons, a gratitude scientist, describes gratitude as having two components: affirmation of goodness and acknowledging where that goodness comes from. The benefits are many, such as magnifying positive emotions, blocking toxic and negative emotions, increasing self-worth and resiliency. We sure can use these benefits at a time when our world continues to feel divisive and unstable.
This Thursday is a day of opportunity, a day to cultivate a grateful heart for ourselves, for others, and for this world. In preparing our hearts and minds for this opportunity to experience connection, love, and kindness, I share with you this 28 minute Thanksgiving meditation. This meditation begins with a focus on the breath, then a loved one/friend, then ourselves, and then our Thanksgiving table.
Find a quiet spot to sit and allow yourself to connect with the moment, with the joy this holiday can offer, and with the gifts you give and receive through your open heart.
