The holidays are often the perfect time to reflect and reminisce. When was the last time you thought about your childhood and the traditions your family celebrated? What about the memories you’ve made with your children and grandchildren? Although holidays can be stressful, they can also be the perfect time to draw near to each other with love and appreciation.

As we travel through the passages of time, it’s not unusual to reflect on memories of when the holidays were met with joy and anticipation. What made them so? Do you continue to practice those traditions? What new traditions would you like to share with your family?

Jesus said, “And a little child will lead them.” This year, may we cherish the time we spend with family and friends with the joy and awe of a child. Ask those gathered around the Thanksgiving table to express their gratitude. Go to Christmas Eve service. Read the Nativity Story. Look for the North Star. Love one another.

The holidays are meant to be a time of family and fellowship. When we remember the Reason for the Season, we may be motivated to pause, reflect, and cherish our time with family and friends. Or, we may feel anxious and exhausted. Both may be true.

When you see a commercial reminding us the holidays are upon us, do you celebrate or cringe? The holidays are often a dichotomy of feelings. We love family time (or not), we enjoy finding the perfect gift for our loved ones (or not), and we cherish every moment (or we can’t wait for the holidays to be over.)

Knowing when and how to set healthy boundaries may eliminate much of the stress and anxiety we experience during the holidays. The art of setting boundaries takes practice and diligence; the goal is to be clear and precise. As a wise woman once said, “I didn’t say it would be easy; I said it would be worth it.”

Show notes:

Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A guide to reclaiming yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Boundaries quiz: https://www.boundariesbooks.com/pages/quiz.

As we step into November, gratitude is at the heart of the season—but why does it matter so much? In this episode, we explore the science and significance of gratitude in transforming our mental health, relationships, and even our work lives.

Join us as we dive into research-based insights, including how gratitude can reduce anxiety, boost resilience, and strengthen connections with those around us. We’ll also share practical, simple ways to foster gratitude daily, even during challenging times. Whether you’re looking to start a new gratitude practice or deepen your existing one, this conversation offers fresh ideas and inspiration to bring more positivity and appreciation into your life. Tune in and discover how gratitude can be the gift that keeps on giving, long after November.

Show Notes:

Sources Mentioned in This Episode:

1.Harvard Health Publishing – Article on the benefits of gratitude and its impact on happiness and mental health.

•Harvard Health Publishing

2.Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley – Research on the role of gratitude in reducing negative emotions and enhancing resilience.

•Greater Good Science Center

3.American Psychological Association – Discussion on gratitude’s physical health benefits, including better sleep and reduced stress.

•American Psychological Association

4.National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Research on the physiological effects of gratitude, such as lower blood pressure and improved immune response.

•National Institutes of Health

5.University of California, Davis – Studies on gratitude’s effects on relationship satisfaction and social bonds.

•University of California, Davis

6.Psychology Today – Articles on gratitude’s impact on social connections and the balance between gratitude and authenticity.

•Psychology Today

7.Forbes – Insights on how gratitude can improve workplace dynamics, productivity, and job satisfaction.

•Forbes

8.Journal of Positive Psychology – Studies on gratitude in professional settings, including effects on stress and job satisfaction.

•Journal of Positive Psychology

9.The Gratitude Project by Greater Good Science Center – Practical exercises and gratitude practices for everyday life.

•The Gratitude Project

10.Mindful.org – Resources and mindfulness practices to incorporate gratitude in daily routines.

•Mindful.org

11.Mental Health Foundation (UK) – Insights into fostering “healthy gratitude” and avoiding toxic positivity.