Leah Niehaus, LCSW & Associates

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Gratitude

🌟Weekly Inspiration🌟

The research is clear that people who consciously count their blessings tend to be happier overall. We all know this, but it doesn’t mean that we all have developed a gratitude practice. The Greater Good Science Center conducted research (2017) and found:

1.  Gratitude unshackles us from toxic emotions.
2.  Gratitude helps even if you don’t share it.
3.  Gratitude’s benefits take time.
4.  Gratitude has lasting effects on the brain.

Sometimes, life is hard and it might feel impossible to feel gratitude. Yet, even in the most challenging circumstances, some people find a way to be appreciative of something/someone. As therapists, we are often called to shine a light on what is actually working, where there might be hope, and to assist someone in counting their blessings while also processing their pain.

Ask Yourself:

Am I a grateful person? Not just lip service, but do I actually feel thankful in my core?
Do I feel like a victim? Or a survivor?
What does my gratitude practice look like?
What have I modeled for my children in this respect?
Do my kids feel appreciative? Thankful? Grateful?
Do my children write thank you cards to others? Do I?
Do I pray? Do my prayers express gratitude?
Any small shifts I’d like to make this season?

“There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle.” -Albert Einstein

Happy Thanksgiving season from me to you ❤️🍂. I feel deeply grateful for this work and all of you readers! 

Be Well


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