Daily Herald opinion: The power of gratitude and how it enhances our quality of life

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and that has us thinking about family, food and football. But amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, one thing is often overlooked — gratitude and the true meaning of this holiday.

Thanking a coworker, appreciating a friend and expressing love to a family member can make us feel better, as well as put a smile on the face of the person we’re thanking. Give it a try and see how it lifts your spirits.

And there is science behind it. Along with giving us warm fuzzies, practicing gratitude regularly can significantly enhance our mental, emotional and even physical well-being, improving our overall quality of life.

The most immediate effect of gratitude is its positive impact on mental health. Many studies have found that people who practice thankfulness tend to be happier and experience lower levels of stress, depression and anxiety. Gratitude works by shifting our mindset. Instead of fixating on what's missing, we begin to focus on the good already present in our lives.

This change in perspective rewires the brain to emphasize positive experiences and reduce negative thinking. Neuroscientific studies have found that gratitude activates regions in the brain associated with pleasure and reward while deactivating areas linked to stress and fear.

Essentially, gratitude helps us feel more content and resilient, even in challenging times.

Gratitude also plays a crucial role in fostering stronger relationships. When we express appreciation for the people in our lives, it creates a sense of connection and mutual respect.

In stressful times, gratitude can serve as a powerful antidote. Focusing on what we’re thankful for helps shift our attention away from stressors and grounds us in the moment. Studies show that people who practice gratitude regularly have lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, so they are able to manage pressure more effectively.

This sense of calm can also improve our physical health. Grateful people tend to engage in healthier behaviors, such as exercising more and sleeping better.

And one of the best aspects of gratitude is its ripple effect. When we express our thanks, it inspires others to do the same, creating a cycle of positivity that spreads from one person to another. Small acts of kindness can lead to greater generosity and connection in our neighborhoods, schools and communities.

So this Thanksgiving, let's make gratitude a centerpiece of our celebration. By taking time to appreciate the good in our lives, we’ll not only improve our mental and physical health, but also create a deeper sense of connection with others.

As you gather around the table with loved ones, we encourage you to pause, express gratitude to those around you and reap the rewards of this simple but powerful practice.

And in that spirit, we thank you, our Daily Herald readers, for your loyalty, curiosity and support each and every day. We are truly grateful for you.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!