It's a great article, and I suggest you read it. But knowing you have a turkey to bake and pies to make, let's assume you won't get around to reading the article. Here's a quote that pretty much sums up the research it covers:
"Cultivating an “attitude of gratitude” has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life and kinder behavior toward others, including romantic partners. A new study shows that feeling grateful makes people less likely to turn aggressive when provoked, which helps explain why so many brothers-in-law survive Thanksgiving without serious injury."
In one study, researchers asked participants to write a weekly gratitude journal entry. When compared to the control group, the grateful participants were emotionally and physically healthier. They even worked out more.
The article also mentions an exercise developed by positive psychology expert Martin Seligman: "[write] a 300-word letter to someone who changed your life for the better. Be specific about what the person did and how it affected you. Deliver it in person, preferably without telling the person in advance what the visit is about. When you get there, read the whole thing slowly to your benefactor. 'You will be happier and less depressed one month from now,' Dr. Seligman guarantees in his book Flourish."
If you're like me and have a long car ride ahead of you today (and have you checked out the Chicago traffic reports yet?), then I challenge you to try a modified, road-trip version of Seligman's exercise. Take time to tell every person in your vehicle (kids, spouse, mother-in-law) five things about them for which you are grateful. Think about the character traits, the positive habits, or the skills and talents that make that person special, and that have a positive impact in your life. Research says you'll be headed for a healthier and happier Thanksgiving holiday.
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