Why is it so hard to be thankful

Do you ever wonder why it's easier to focus on the things that drag us down instead of what makes us happy? Research shows that our brains react more strongly to negative experiences than positive ones. Negative emotions like fear and anxiety trigger increased activity in a part of the brain linked to memories.

Realistically, there are annoyances in our lives everyday. I know when I'm stuck in traffic, trying to make an appointment on the phone, or dealing with a work situation, things that go wrong throughout the day stick with me longer than the good things.

In classes this week and last, I have centered on themes that deal with gratitude and thankfulness. As Thanksgiving approaches, find one thing that is good about each day and sit with it, be thankful for it. It could be something as simple as a good book or a cup of coffee. What if that thing wasn't there? How would that make you feel? Then tune into the feeling you get knowing that it is there.

In noticing what is good in our lives, picturing it, feeling it in our bodies, we find thankfulness. What are you thankful for?

Love and peace,

Lisa