If you follow us on Facebook or Instagram, you may have noticed our theme for November: gratitude.

Research shows that practicing gratitude can increase happiness, strengthen relationships, lead to more satisfaction in life, increase resiliency, and even improve sleep and physical health. With Thanksgiving approaching, we challenge you to join us in practicing gratitude!

Below are a few simple ways you can incorporate gratitude into your everyday. Try a few out and who knows, maybe you'll get inspired to continue living in gratitude all year long...

  1. Keep a gratitude journal - Spend a few minutes in the morning or at night jotting down 3 things you are grateful for.
  2. Meditate - Maybe writing is not your thing...find a comfy seat and spend a few minutes in the morning or at night concentrating on one thing you are grateful for.
  3. Write a thank you note - Think of someone who has helped you recently and write them a physical thank you note. Everyone appreciates some good old fashioned snail mail now and then!
  4. Do a random act of kindness - Hold the door for someone, buy a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line, or simply smile at a stranger...you'll inspire others to pay it forward!
  5. Make gratitude part of meal time - Take a few minutes at your family meals to share what you're grateful for with each other.
  6. Walk mindfully - Go for a walk and make a mental list of everything see, hear, smell, or feel that you are grateful for.
  7. Say "thank you" - Who do you appreciate in your community? Maybe a mail carrier, teacher, or police officer? Tell them next time you see them.
  8. Send a text message - Think of a friend or family member you are grateful for...do they know how much you appreciate them? Send a quick text message letting them know.
  9. Start a gratitude jar at home - Write a short note whenever you think of something you're grateful for and add it to the jar. Encourage your family members to do the same.
  10. Appreciate the little things - Gratitude does not have to be reserved for the big moments in life. Take note of the little things you're grateful for everyday.