Day 8: Gratitude this Christmas

"Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas." - Peg Bracken

The Christmas season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. With so much to do and so many people to see, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. However, taking a moment to practice gratitude can help shift our focus and bring more joy into our lives.

Gratitude is all about being thankful for what we have, rather than focusing on what we lack and what

we don’t have. It's a powerful tool that has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase overall well-being. During the Christmas period, practicing gratitude can help us appreciate the little things, like spending time with loved ones, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season.

One way to practice gratitude during the festive season is to keep a gratitude journal. Each day, take a few moments to write down three things you're thankful for. They can be big or small, from a warm cup of hot chocolate to a thoughtful gift from a friend. Reflecting on these moments of gratitude can help shift our focus away from stress and anxiety, and help us cultivate a sense of joy and contentment.

Another way to practice gratitude during the festive season is to express thanks to those around us. Take a moment to write a heartfelt note to a loved one, drop them a text or simply say "thank you" to someone who has made a difference in your life. These small acts of kindness can have a big impact, both for the person receiving the gratitude and for the person expressing it.

By practicing gratitude during the festive season, we can cultivate a sense of joy and contentment, even amidst the stress and chaos of the season. So take a moment to appreciate the little things, express thanks to those around you, and enjoy the magic of the season.

So there is day 8, gratitude can be simple and often we take saying thank you for granted. Make sure you are back here tomorrow for day 9.

Kisses
Katie xx