Express Gratitude

Gratitude means thanks and appreciation. Research shows that expressing gratitude can help shift our mind to notice and appreciate the positives in life. This can be especially true when we are faced with challenges. Identifying and sharing gratitude can be a tool to support healthy relationships and develop resilience. When we express gratitude – however simple or small – we are building a lifelong mentally healthy habit that helps to create a sense of thankfulness and contentment in our life. Living in gratitude reminds us that God has given us gifts to share with others.

In today’s Wellness Wednesday, we are invited to share what we are grateful for in our lives.

Try this:

As a class, group or family:

· Start by asking everyone to think about somebody or something they love, or something wonderful that happened to them today (big or small).

· Next, invite each person to share something that they are grateful for today.

· Begin with: “Today, I am grateful for…”.

· Offer everyone a chance to contribute, giving people the chance to “pass”. Circle back and ask if anyone has anything to add at the end.

o NOTE: For some people, this will be a new experience. It may take time to feel comfortable. An alternative could be to write or draw what they are grateful for today.

· End by inviting everyone to take three soft, slow breaths, allowing themselves to feel thankful.

Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer:

Do I give thanks to God regularly?

How can I use the gifts God has given me to express my thankfulness?

Connecting to our faith:

“Give thanks to the God of heaven, For His loving kindness (graciousness, mercy, compassion) endures forever.” (Psalm 136:26)

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

Further Learning:

· EDUCATOR RESOURCE: Gratitude lesson plan https://web.microsoftstream.com/video/700b05cd-7d44-4e23-84df-6ffb88907c65

· CHILDREN’S BOOK: “Gratitude Is My Superpower” by Alicia Ortego · SEL POSTER: Gratitude Moment https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/SEL-Posters-Gratitude-Moment.pdf · CAREGIVER RESOURCE: “Easy and Fun Mental Health Activities for Home” (5th activity) https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/EDMH-ParentActivities-FINAL-EN.pdf

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