The Season of ThanksGIVING

One of the uniquely American holidays is Thanksgiving. Like Independence Day on the 4 of July, it centers around our country’s founding. Our Thanksgiving tradition comes from the early days of America when the pilgrims gathered in the fall and invited the Indians who had helped them survive their first year to share a feast of Thanksgiving. Their Thanksgiving feast was a way to “give back” to those who had enabled them to survive and thrive in this new world. But the themes of giving and giving thanks are more critical to our lives than a seasonal holiday. Over the last several years, scientists have begun to study the effects of gratitude and sharing on our lives. Robert A. Emmons, a professor of psychology at UC Davis, is widely regarded as the world’s leading scientific expert in the study of gratitude and has noted that thankful, giving people have “stronger immune systems, fewer noticeable aches and pains, lower blood pressure, increased energy, a desire to exercise more, and experience more refreshing sleep.” Giving and saying “thank you” helps us create an attitude that affects our whole life.

Dr. Emmons also noted that giving and gratitude can be cultivated. We can produce new skills and reap wonderful results with a little concentrated effort. For example, plan to give to your favorite charity regularly and look for a way to serve the charity and/or donate financially. Make it a practice to say “thank you” when someone does something for you, even when it is the most mundane task, such as opening a door or pouring a glass of water. As a senior, remembering good times or events can also fill you with gratitude and have a positive effect on your life.

Dr. Emmons notes, “For seniors and those transitioning to a stage in life where they might be less independent than they once were, cultivating an attitude of giving and gratitude can make a notable difference in their quality of life.” As Americans, we have a heritage of thanks and giving that we can extend to future generations. GIVE thanks!